The Rotary Club of Antigua officially ushered in a new year of service with the installation of its 2026–2027 Board of Directors during its Handover Ceremony and Awards Dinner held on Saturday, 11 July at The Cove Restaurant, Blue Waters Hotel. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the outgoing Board while formally welcoming a new leadership team committed to advancing Rotary’s mission of service throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

Incoming President Anastasia Wilson assumes leadership under Rotary International’s 2026–2027 theme, “Create Lasting Impact,” which calls on Rotary members worldwide to strengthen communities through sustainable service, meaningful partnerships, and lasting change. Guided by this vision, the Club will continue to build on decades of community service while expanding initiatives that support education, youth development, environmental sustainability, health, and humanitarian outreach.

During the ceremony, outgoing President Elisa Graham reflected on a successful Rotary year under the theme “Unite for Good,” highlighting the Club’s accomplishments in service projects, youth initiatives, support for The Rotary Foundation, membership growth, leadership development, and public image. She expressed gratitude to the Board of Directors, committee chairs, members, sponsors, and community partners whose dedication helped strengthen Rotary’s impact across Antigua and Barbuda.

In her message to members, President Graham congratulated President Wilson and the incoming Board, expressing confidence that the Club would continue to build on the strong foundation established over the past year while inspiring even greater service and fellowship.

2026–2027 Board of Directors

· President: Rtn. Anastasia Wilson

· Vice President: PP Denise Armstrong

· Secretary: Rtn. Barbara Jarvis

· Treasurer: Rtn. Rozanne Emanuel

· Director – Service Projects: PP Paul Ryan

· Director – Membership: Rtn. Celia Samuel

· Director – Foundation: Rtn. Delbert Baptiste

· Director – Youth Services: Rtn. Sherwyn Greenidge

· Public Image Chair: Rtn. Dwayne Simon

· Immediate Past President: PP Elisa Graham

· President Elect: Rtn. T. Samoya Kirby

· Club Administrator: PP Evangeline Allen

· Sergeant-at-Arms: Rtn. Barbara Hesse-Merchant

The evening also celebrated the outstanding contributions of Rotarians and community partners whose dedication exemplified Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Several prestigious awards were presented in recognition of exceptional leadership, volunteerism, and community impact.

Director of the Year was presented to Rotarian Linda Watkins in recognition of her extraordinary commitment and exceptional leadership as Club Treasurer. She demonstrated outstanding financial stewardship, restored stability to the Club’s financial operations, maintained accountability, and supported several committees throughout the Rotary year.

The coveted Rotarian of the Year award was presented to Rotarian Rozanne Emanuel for her exceptional dedication, unwavering commitment, and exemplary service to the Club. She consistently demonstrated selfless leadership, dependability, and a willingness to support fellow Rotarians, earning recognition as a true embodiment of Rotary’s ideal of “Service Above Self.”

Past President Evangeline Allen received the Service Excellence Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership while simultaneously serving as a Club Director and successfully chairing District RYLA 2025, reflecting her continued commitment to developing young leaders throughout the district.

The Club also presented a Community Service Award to Mr. Fitzgerald Ponde in appreciation of his generous donation of services and invaluable support in the erection of Peace Poles across Antigua and Barbuda. His contribution has helped advance Rotary’s commitment to promoting peace, understanding, and goodwill within the community.

President Wilson expressed her appreciation for the confidence placed in the new Board and reaffirmed the Club’s commitment to creating meaningful, measurable, and sustainable impact through service. She noted that the coming Rotary year will focus on strengthening partnerships, growing membership, empowering young leaders, and delivering projects that respond to the evolving needs of communities across Antigua and Barbuda.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Rotary Club of Antigua Installs 2026–2027 Board of Directors.