The Rotary Club of Cedaredge welcomed Donna Hood, Governor of Rotary District 5470 for the 2026–27 Rotary year, as a guest speaker at its weekly meeting last Tuesday.
Hood Brings Years of Rotary and Business Experience
Assistant Governor Sarah Bishop introduced Hood, noting her career in biotechnology and longtime Rotary service.
Hood co-founded Jackson ImmunoResearch Laboratories in 1982. She also owned and managed Painted View Ranch, a working horse ranch and event venue. Hood has placed the ranch on the market to focus fully on her year as district governor.
Her Rotary service includes serving as a club president, assistant governor, district treasurer and Rotary Foundation leader. Cedaredge Rotary members welcomed Hood with a standing ovation.
Focus on Cedaredge Rotary's Future
During her visit, Hood recognized the Cedaredge club's accomplishments and discussed its plans for the future. She encouraged members to consider how the club can create a lasting impact in the community over the next three years.
Among the club's accomplishments, Hood highlighted the annual Summer Scramble golf tournament fundraiser, as well as the club's Student of the Month program, which recognizes local students for leadership and achievement.
She also recognized Past President Steve Blackburn for his Rotary service and for receiving a Club Excellence Award from Rotary International.
Three-Year Strategic Plan Discussed
Hood encouraged the club to develop a rolling three-year strategic plan that can continue from one Rotary leadership year to the next. She emphasized establishing a small number of measurable priorities and regularly reviewing progress.
Community service will remain a focus. Club members identified scholarships for local children as one priority and discussed international literacy work. Hood noted that Rotary District 5470 has resources to help clubs connect with international service opportunities.
Membership and Community Involvement
Membership was another topic during Hood's visit. She encouraged members to invite prospective Rotarians to social and service events and consider whether meeting times and club activities can accommodate working professionals.
Hood also discussed alternative Rotary membership models, including satellite and companion clubs, which offer additional ways for people to participate when traditional meeting schedules are difficult.
Looking Ahead
Hood's visit gave the Cedaredge Rotary Club an opportunity to celebrate its community contributions while planning for the next three years of service.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Club President Mark Condon told Hood and Bishop, "We have gained awareness of district resources that we intend to use in the future."