Could District Governor Be Your Next Step in Rotary?

The District Governor serves as a leader, connector, resource, and ambassador for the clubs of District 5960. While it is a significant commitment, past governors describe the experience as one of the most rewarding opportunities Rotary has given them.

Past District Governor Kyle Haugen encourages Rotarians not to wait for the “perfect” time to consider serving. Reflecting on his experience, Kyle shared that serving as District Governor gave him lasting friendships, a greater appreciation for Rotary's international impact, new leadership skills, personal and professional growth—and a lot of fun.

His advice to someone considering the opportunity is simple:

“Don't wait until it's the right time...make now be the right time. You won't regret it!”

Who Is Eligible?

Candidates for District Governor must meet Rotary International's qualifications. Among the key requirements, candidates must:

• Be a Rotarian in good standing in a functioning club within the district.
• Have served a full term as a Rotary club president, or as a charter president for at least six months.
• Be willing and able to fulfill the responsibilities of District Governor.
• Understand the qualifications, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position.
• Have at least seven years of Rotary membership by the time they take office.
• Complete required Rotary training before beginning their term.

Don't let the requirements—or the size of the role—keep you from exploring the opportunity. You don't have to make the decision alone. Start a conversation, ask questions, and learn what serving as District Governor could look like for you.

Interested? Take the First Step.

Applications for the 2029–2030 District Governor are now being accepted.

To request an application or learn more about the nomination process, contact:

Glenn Bowers, District Nominating Team Lead
grbowers53@gmail.com

Kathy Hughitt
Kathy.hughitt@rotary5960.org

Application Deadline: October 30, 2026

Lead. Connect. Serve. Make an Impact.

Perhaps you've wondered how you could take your Rotary service to the next level. This could be your opportunity.

Could you be the Rotarian who leads District 5960 during Rotary's 125th anniversary year?

On Saturday, October 24 — World Polio Day — Rotarians across our region will be putting on their walking shoes for something BIG: the World’s Largest Polio Walk.

More than 36,000 Rotarians and nearly 1,000 Rotaractors in 11 states and two countries are being invited to walk together — all with the goal of raising awareness and $1 million to help End Polio Now. Watch the Video Now

District 5960 clubs: we have lots of ways to get in on the fun! Organize a walk in your own community and invite members, families, friends and prospective Rotarians to join you. Or make plans to join fellow Rotarians at walks being organized in Prior Lake and Stillwater. And if you're ready to go BIG, our neighbors in District 5950 are gathering at the Mall of America. The MOA walk begins the morning of October 24, with walkers invited to do a little or a lot. Come walk for polio — and since you're already at the Mall, you might as well get your shopping on afterward!

Why walk? Rotary's decades-long effort has helped reduce polio cases worldwide by more than 99.9%. But “almost” isn't good enough. Until transmission ends everywhere, children remain at risk and Rotary's promise remains unfinished.

A club walk can be as simple or creative as you want: pick a favorite local trail, park or downtown route; invite the community; wear your End Polio Now gear; collect donations; and share plenty of photos. Every step helps tell the story that Rotary is still in this fight.

Host a walk. Join a walk. Bring a friend. Take the next step toward making polio the second human disease ever eradicated from the earth.

Join the movement. Take the step. End Polio Now.

Learn more about the World’s Largest Polio Walk

The five Rotary districts participating in Unite for Water—Districts 5580, 5950, 5960, 5970, and 5610—continue to demonstrate that small actions create big impact.

As Rotary members work together to improve water quality, protect watersheds, and expand access to safe water and sanitation, they are truly living the initiative's call to action:

"Act Today for Water Tomorrow."

Together, Rotary members are creating cleaner water, healthier communities, and a stronger future for all.

Learn more at: Act Today for Water Tomorrow - it starts with us!

The District 5960 outbound team will travel to Brazil from September 6–15, 2026, where participants will stay in the homes of local Rotarians, visit Rotary projects, attend club meetings, and experience Brazilian culture through the eyes of their hosts. One of the highlights of the trip will be a visit to the world-famous Iguazu Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfall systems in the world.

Rotary Friendship Exchange is designed to strengthen international understanding, promote goodwill, and foster partnerships that often lead to future service projects and lifelong friendships. Participants return with a deeper appreciation for Rotary's global reach and the many ways Rotary members create positive change across borders.

District 5960 is seeking a team of 12 Rotarians and partners to participate in this exciting adventure. Applications are now being accepted, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply soon.

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

APPLICATION LINK:
ROTARY FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGE INVITATION D4640:

QUESTIONS:  Contact District Governor Glenn Bowers

This exchange promises an unforgettable combination of Rotary fellowship, cultural immersion, and international service learning. If you have ever wanted to experience Rotary on a global scale, this is your opportunity.

For additional information and application materials, contact the District 5960 Rotary Friendship Exchange Committee.

"Rotary opens doors to the world—not only through service, but through friendship."