Robert B. Friend Inducted as District Governor of Rotary Southern Connecticut, District 7980.
Rotary Southern Connecticut is proud to announce the induction of Robert B. Friend, a member of Madison Rotary, as the incoming District Governor for the 2024-2025 Rotary year. The installation ceremony, held on Sunday, June 23rd at Water's Edge Resort & Spa, was attended by 140 distinguished guests, including Rotarians, dignitaries, and community leaders.
The leadership of the district transitioned to Robert from District Governor, Christene Freedman of the Wilton Rotary, whose accomplishments were vast with a primary focus on ending the stigma on mental health. Stephanie Philips of the Stratford Rotary will serve as District Governor-Elect, and Don Wetmore of the Milford Rotary will serve as District Governor Nominee.
Robert Friend, a resident of Madison, Connecticut, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role. With a professional background spanning over four decades in the nonprofit and commercial performing arts, sports, and technology industries, Robert is well-equipped to lead Rotary District 7980 into a future of community and international service, growth, and local impact.
"I am honored to serve alongside all Rotarians in southern Connecticut, elevating Rotary's voice through innovative, action-based service that celebrates diversity and humanity," states Friend. "Through our focus on Positive Peace, and our vast impact of local and global initiatives that transform communities and save lives, together we will inspire a new generation of Rotarians."
During the ceremony, Robert outlined his vision for the upcoming year, focusing on initiatives that align with Rotary International’s broader goals under Rotary International President, Stephanie Urchick:
- Irresistibility through Service: Robert emphasized the importance of making Rotary irresistible by showcasing the impactful work of Rotarians in their communities and globally. He encouraged members to push beyond their comfort zones and engage passionately in service and fellowship.
- Positive Peace: The District's new peace initiative, "Opus for Peace: Creating Harmony, Inspiring Wellness, and Embracing Diversity Through the Fusion of the Arts," will see Rotary Clubs throughout Southern Connecticut planting peace poles and initiating peace projects infused through the arts. This initiative aims to create an environment where dialogue, empathy, and artistic expression converge to heal divides, celebrate diversity, and build a more harmonious world.
- Ending the Stigma on Mental Health: Robert is committed to continuing the District's mission to end the stigma on mental health and promote mental wellness. By building on existing efforts, Robert aims to create a positive environment for peace and mental health, ensuring safety and support for individuals, families, and communities.
About Robert Friend:
Robert Friend has been a Rotarian for over two decades and has actively participated in District activities for over a decade. He has served in various leadership roles, including President of the Madison Rotary Club and Assistant District Governor. His extensive experience in public image and communications has helped elevate the visibility and engagement of Rotary clubs in the district.
Robert is the President of Live Entertainment Solutions Group, a consulting firm dedicated to delivering sustainable growth to the entertainment and performing arts industry. His career includes executive positions at nationally acclaimed Tony Award-winning theaters and a 20-year tenure as an adjunct professor at Brooklyn College.
During the pandemic, Robert played a crucial role in the Million Mask Challenge Tour, distributing 5.5 million PPEs to communities in need through the support of the Rossi Foundation. He has also been instrumental in the Rotary Day of Service project, which has grown to include 20 districts across six countries, engaging over 1,000 clubs and 30,000 Rotarians.
Robert is a graduate of Boston's Emerson College and recently completed a 16-year term on the college's Board of Trustees. He resides in Madison, Connecticut with his wife Maribel, where together they have three children, Alyssa (26), Brianna (24) and Edward (23), all present at Robert’s installation celebration as District Governor.
About Rotary District 7980:
Rotary District 7980 serves Southern Connecticut and is part of Rotary International, a global humanitarian service organization. Rotary members are dedicated to service, promoting peace, and improving communities worldwide through various initiatives and projects. We are neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Our Rotarians are people of action who have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end. To learn more about the District, or to become a member of Rotary, please visit www.Rotary7980.org.
About Rotary International:
Rotary unites a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges and creating lasting change. Rotary connects 1.4 million people of action from more than 46,000 Rotary clubs in almost every country in the world. Their service improves lives both locally and internationally, from helping those in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. For more information, visit Rotary.org.
