As you may recall, the Changeover takes place by way of exchanging Rotary Pins. This year, we got the real thing , LIVE at the Viva Whitby Shores Retirement Communities in Whitby on June 25, 2026
Past District Governor Niecy receives her Immediate Past District Governor Pin and Niecy presented Liz Compton with her District Governor Pin.
Here are Niecy's remarks as she passes the torch to Liz…….
Passing the Torch to Liz Compton :
And now, the moment has arrived. The moment when I officially pass this incredible honour, responsibility, and privilege to the next leader of District 7070. Liz Compton.
Liz, this district is in excellent hands.
Over this past year, I have had the opportunity to work alongside you, watch you prepare, watch you learn, watch you lead, and most importantly, watch how deeply you care about Rotary and the people who make it so special. You have put in the work. You have asked the questions. You have shown up. And you have done all of it with heart, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
I know firsthand what lies ahead for you. There will be moments that will make you laugh until your cheeks hurt. There will be moments that will make you incredibly proud. There will be moments that will challenge you. And there will be moments that will absolutely take your breath away.
You are about to embark on one of the most rewarding journeys Rotary has to offer. You will meet people who will inspire you. You will build friendships that will last a lifetime. And you will discover, as I have, that this role is not about leading a district—it is about serving people. And Liz, you are exceptionally good at that.
So tonight, as I pass you the District Governor pin, I want you to know something. You will never walk this journey alone. I will be there for you. I will support you. I will cheer you on. I will answer the phone when you call (and if I don’t call Tina or Terry). I will celebrate your successes. And when you have those moments where you wonder if you're doing enough, I will remind you that you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Because that is what Rotary family does. We support one another. We lift one another up. And we walk beside each other.
Now, I do have one small warning for all of you.
As many of you know, this year has been all about Sweet Caroline.
However... I have a feeling that over the next year, we may be hearing The Love Train just a few more times than Sweet Caroline. And honestly? I can't think of a better soundtrack for the year ahead.
Because Liz's year will be about bringing people together, building connections, and making sure everyone feels like they belong aboard that train.
So District 7070, I ask you to do what you did for me.
Support her. Encourage her. Challenge her. Celebrate with her. And most importantly, enjoy every moment of the journey.
Liz, thank you for your friendship. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your commitment to District 7070.
The district is ready. The train is leaving the station.
And I cannot wait to see where you take us. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming and celebrating your 2026-2027 District Governor... Liz Compton.
All aboard the Love Train! Congratulations, Liz.