First 100 Presidents of Rotary International

With the assistance of Rotarian/historian Doug Rudman, Jack M. B. Selway and the history project created histories, biographies, memories, writings and memorials for each president of Rotary International. These presidents pages are linked to the convention for that president, the home club of the president and any other articles which are relevant.
Each president’s theme is also described. The themes, a project of Doug Rudman, are also translated into multiple languages. The themes in languages other than English do not include the graphics and load more quickly. Also, there is a list of presidents’ home clubs and all conventions of Rotary.

Much of the early design for this section was inspired by Rachid Karroo, RC of Quatre Bornes, D9220, Mauritius RIP, RIPE, and RIPN are abbreviations for Rotary International President (Elect) (Nominee) See also details of the “Early Leaders” of Rotary – those who spread the word of Rotary throughout the world.

CAMPAIGNING FOR ROTARY OFFICES PROHIBITED

In August 1910, Rotarians gathered in Chicago for their first national convention. The existing 16 clubs unified as the National Association of Rotary Clubs and elected Rotary founder Paul P. Harris as the organization’s first president. Harris served two terms the only president to do so.

Other notable presidents include Canadian E. Leslie Pidgeon (1917-18, the first from outside the United States; Sydney W. Pascall (1931-32), the first from Great Britain; and Maurice Duperrey (1937-38), the first from continental Europe. In July 1940, the first president from South America, Armando de Arruda Pereira, took office.

The presidents of Rotary International are elected for one-year terms and must have served as a club president, district governor, and member of the RI Board of Directors. In addition to leadership experience, RI presidents bring a commitment to Service Above Self as well as the culture and pride of their home club and region.