A Year of Service, Fellowship, and Impact
As the 2025-2026 Rotary year came to a close, Rotary Club of Joliet President Megan Millen expressed her gratitude for a year marked by service, collaboration, and meaningful community impact.
"Serving this club has been both an honor and a privilege," Millen shared during her final meeting as president. "Over the past year, I have been continually inspired by your dedication, generosity, and commitment to Service Above Self."
Throughout the year, club members demonstrated Rotary's mission through hands-on service projects, community partnerships, engaging weekly programs, and countless volunteer hours. From supporting local youth initiatives and community organizations to fostering fellowship among members, the Rotary Club of Joliet continued its long tradition of making a difference throughout the region.
Millen emphasized that the club's accomplishments were the result of teamwork and shared commitment.
"Together, we have accomplished meaningful work, strengthened friendships, and made a positive impact in our community. None of that happens because of one person. It happens because of all of you."
Special thanks were extended to the club's Board of Directors for their leadership and thoughtful discussions throughout the year, as well as to Sue, Amanda, and the staff of the Jacob Henry Mansion for their support in hosting weekly meetings and club events.
The year was also deeply personal for Millen. Inspired by the example of her mother, a fellow Rotarian from New York who passed away in 2017, Millen reflected on the significance of leading one of Rotary's historic clubs. During the club's year-end celebration, she even shared a humorous and heartfelt musical tribute titled "Rotary Club," celebrating the friendships, service projects, Tuesday meetings, and joy of Rotary fellowship.
In addition to concluding her presidential term, Millen announced her retirement from public library service effective January 1, 2027, after a 31-year career, including the past 10 years serving the Joliet community. She also shared plans to launch a consulting business focused on helping job seekers prepare for interviews and pursue their career goals.
While retirement may mark the end of one chapter, Millen made it clear that her Rotary journey is far from over.
"I am not leaving Rotary," she told members. "I believe in the mission of Rotary and, in particular, in the good that this Joliet club can do."
As the club prepared to welcome incoming President John Spesia and the 2026-2027 Board of Directors members looked ahead with optimism and confidence. Guided by Rotary's enduring motto of Service Above Self, the Rotary Club of Joliet remains committed to serving the community, developing leaders, and creating positive change both locally and around the world.
At the conclusion of her remarks, Millen rang the bell one final time and left members with a fitting reminder:
"Let's unite for good."
Thank you, President Megan Millen, for a memorable year of leadership, service, laughter, and friendship. The Rotary Club of Joliet is stronger because of your dedication and vision.
