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By Hannah Barron

The Rotary Club of LaGrange celebrated its 2024-25 highlights and many Rotarians for their contributions during the club’s annual banquet held June 26 at 134 Main.

Outgoing Rotary president Connie Hensler, the evening’s emcee, shared the club’s accomplishments, which included raising over $12,000 last year through its second annual 5K race, serving as the presenting sponsor for the first LaGrange Mayor’s Summer Reading Club, recognizing Troup County’s STAR students, providing books to every Pre-K student in Troup County, and supporting the community with many donations and volunteer efforts.

Hensler said the club was also recognized by Rotary District 6900, with medals for a new or improved project and for the club’s support of PolioPlus. Last year, the club also received the Gold Level EPIC Award for its public relations.

During the banquet, several Rotarians were recognized for their work and dedication to the club’s mission.

Incoming president Scott Landa was recognized as Rotarian of the Year.

The award recognizes one Rotarian “who has truly embodied the spirit of Rotary” with their dedication and impact.

Hensler highlighted Landa’s work to spearhead the Rotary’s 5K race, an annual fundraising event that started in 2023 to mark the club’s 100th anniversary.

“As we approached our 100th year [in 2023], we knew this was our moment to step up,” Hensler said. “A new event was proposed, and once the idea took hold, [Landa] didn’t hesitate. He stepped up to lead, and he led with energy, determination, and vision. Because of his commitment, his countless hours, and his ability to say ‘yes’ to a big challenge, we’ve been able to give back in meaningful, lasting ways.”

Co-Membership Chair Raylene Carter was honored with the Barbara Henigin Above and Beyond Service Award, an award celebrating the club member whose actions consistently reflect the heart of Rotary’s mission: “putting service before self, every single day.”

Hensler said Carter doesn’t just talk about service — she lives it.

“[Carter] is the kind of member every club dreams of having,” Hensler said. “She is always the first to say ‘yes’—whether it’s helping with race day check-ins, assembling books and bags for our Pre-K students, filling in at the check-in table [during meetings], or stepping up to give the invocation when needed. She leads by example, even guiding us through the Four-Way Test when the moment calls for it. And while she stays deeply involved in the broader community, she still makes time to actively support our club, including welcoming new members into the Rotary family.” 

“[Her] dedication, warmth, and willingness to serve wherever and whenever needed does not go unnoticed,” Hensler continued. “She reminds all of us what it means to live the Rotary ideal of ‘Service Above Self.’”

Carter and Martha Allred were recognized as the club’s Paul Harris Fellows for their support of the Rotary Foundation.

The Rotary’s Charles D. Hudson Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Nicole Kennedy and Gail Gordon.

The award recognizes Rotarians who inspire, lead with heart, show up with creativity, and give their time and talents to lift others in meaningful, lasting ways.

Hensler highlighted Kennedy and Gordon’s adventures as “Jungle Jama” and “Reading Ranger” of The Jungle Bus, a bookmobile that brings the magic of literacy to kids across Troup County.

“This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to be all-in for their community,” Hensler said. “Throughout the year, you’ll find them at neighborhood fairs, literacy festivals, parades, and school events — wherever there are families to reach and children to inspire. But they don’t just show up. They show up in full character — two unforgettable champions of reading.” 

“Whether it’s greeting kids with a wild welcome or building entire experiences around beloved books, they know how to make literacy fun,” Hensler added. “Their creativity knows no bounds. Every event they attend is transformed by interactive, book-themed activities designed to spark imagination and a love of reading in young minds. They remind us that books are adventures and they make sure every child feels invited on the journey. They’ve created something that is more than a program, more than a vehicle, more than a costume — it’s a movement built on joy, access, and the belief that literacy can and should reach every corner of our community.”

The club also recognized its Rotary Youth Challenge participants who graduated this year, including: Raina Dietzel, who graduated early from Troup High School and plans to study cosmetology; Raekwon McCall, who graduated from LaGrange High School and plans to go right to work; and Aiden Morales, who graduated from LaGrange High School and plans to enter the U.S. Navy this August. Dietzel and McCall were unable to be in attendance at the banquet.

The event concluded with the passing of the gavel and club presidential pin to incoming president Landa.

“It’s been so great to work with such an incredible group of people,” Hensler said in her last remarks as president. “I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside some of the most committed, creative and compassionate people I know, and I’m confident that the year ahead is in excellent hands.”