Ralph and Donna Hood
Rotary Opens Doors and Hearts
Before leaving for Taiwan, an unexpected connection began right here at home. Our dry cleaner in Pueblo, who was born in Taipei, learned we would be attending the convention. She immediately connected us with her father and a driver, who welcomed us as if we were family. For three wonderful days, they shared the highlights of their beautiful city, introduced us to local cuisine, and through the magic of a translator app and plenty of smiles, we enjoyed conversations that transcended language barriers.
Every morning we were greeted with fresh fruit and warm hospitality that made us feel at home thousands of miles away.
The Rotary convention itself was everything one would expect—breakout sessions, inspiring general sessions, the House of Friendship, breakfasts and lunches with Rotarians from around the world—but one evening reminded me why Rotary is so special.
Two years ago, at the Rotary International Convention in Vancouver, I met a Past District Governor from Taiwan. We stayed in touch, and this year he invited us to a gathering of three Rotary sister clubs. Ralph and I were the only guests from outside Taiwan. What awaited us was far more than dinner. For three hours, Rotarians entertained one another with music, laughter, and fellowship. I was introduced to District Governors, Past District Governors, presidents, and incoming presidents, and throughout the evening we were embraced not as visitors, but as friends. It reminded me that Rotary does far more than organize meetings and service projects.
Rotary opens doors. Rotary opens hearts. Rotary creates friendships that know no borders.
As I begin my year as District Governor of District 5470, I carry with me not only the energy and inspiration of the International Convention, but also a renewed appreciation for the relationships that make Rotary extraordinary.
My goals this year are simple:
Expand Our Reach. Tell Rotary's Story. Create Lasting Impact.
I look forward to visiting each of our clubs and celebrating the stories of service, leadership, and fellowship that define Rotary in District 5470. Together, we can strengthen our clubs, welcome new members, and
ensure that every person who walks through our doors experiences the same spirit of hospitality and belonging that Ralph and I experienced in Taiwan.
Service Above Self is more than a motto. It is a way of living that brings people together and reminds us that, despite our differences, we share far more in common than we sometimes realize.
As I begin my year as District Governor, I return from Taipei convinced that Rotary's greatest gift is not found in the sessions we attend, but in the friendships we create. Rotary truly opens doors and hearts, and those friendships know no borders.
As we begin this new Rotary year, I invite each of us to ask:
Who can we welcome? Whose story can we share? And how can we create lasting impact in our communities and around the world?
The answer to those questions will shape not only our year, but the future of Rotary.
I am honored to serve as your District Governor and look forward to sharing this journey with each of you.
Rotary opens doors. Rotary opens hearts. And through friendship, Rotary changes the world.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Donna L. Hood
District Governor 2026-2027
Rotary District 5470