Reflections from President David Sundin at the June 25th President’s Dinner
When he first took on this role, he knew it would be a journey of service, leadership, and growth. What he didn’t fully realize then was how deeply enriching and rewarding it would be—both professionally and personally.
The only reason why David became a Rotarian was because of Don and Kevin Larkin (and he had special thanks for them). The Larkins were clients of David and insisted he start coming to meetings and that he join. David admittedly wasn’t overly excited about the lunch meetings at first, but attending service events and interacting with other Rotarians convinced him that he should become and remain a Rotarian. From the outset he was impressed by the truly good people that make up Windsor (1918) and the truly good work they did and continue to do.
David thanked our Club's Board of Directors, committee chairs, and every member who showed up—week after week—with ideas, energy, and a willingness to serve.
A special thanks was provided to Past President Allan, for always stepping up when David’s employment or family obligations interfered with his duties to the Club. David acknowledged that he relied on the support and mentorship of Past President Allan and other Past Presidents who offered encouragement and advice, and encouraged incoming President John to do the same.
David stated that he tried to start marketing the Club to younger professionals, while honouring the traditions of our older members. While Windsor (1918) has reduced the number of noon lunch meetings, President David tried to ensure we always had high-quality speakers that could speak to our monthly theme or that were relevant to some other important topic for our membership. He also tried to arrange high quality field trips and monthly socials, where Rotarians could better socialize with one another outside the confines of a formal meeting. He is hopeful that the changes help attract the next generation of members, while not turning our backs on what makes 1918 so great in the first place.
He thanked all the members and guests who support all the service projects Windsor (1918) participates in throughout the year. Whether it is raising funds through Art in the Park, Pig-Out-for-Polio, Children's Fest, and Bingos, or actually doing the work by participating locally with Gleaners or gathering socks and bottoms, or travelling to Africa to help dig wells and provide maternal health support – everyone did their part.
President David noted that as a Club, we don't just check off goals, we make efforts to make real and lasting impact, both here at home and abroad. And this year, as in all previous years, and as we will do next year, we did it the Rotary way: with integrity, fellowship, and an unwavering commitment to service above self.
Finally, President David thanked his family and friends. The same people who joined him for his induction were here to support him as he stepped into the role of Past President.
But he had a special thank you for his son Declan and partner Jenny, who gave of their time and energy over the past 12 months, so that David could serve.
Finally, President David thanked the members for the honour and privilege of being able to serve as their President, noting that it has been one of the most meaningful chapters of his life.
President David closed his remarks by encouraging the members to carry forward the spirit of Rotary and keep striving for a better, kinder, and more connected world and offering a toast to Rotary – the world's finest service club.
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