New Rotary Leadership in Montgomery County

MONTGOMERY COUNTY — The dawn of July marked more than just the midpoint of the calendar year for Montgomery County; it signaled the official transition of leadership for local Rotary clubs, as incoming presidents officially assumed their duties for the 2024-2025 Rotary year.

For the next twelve months, these civic leaders will guide their respective chapters in furthering the organization’s long-standing motto of "Service Above Self." Rotary International, a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, and leaders, relies on these local clubs to drive community-based projects ranging from local food drives and scholarship programs to international efforts in disease eradication and water sanitation.

In Conroe, the transition brings a sense of continuity and legacy. Matt Wylie, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, has stepped into the role of president for the Rotary Club of Conroe. Wylie succeeds Cecily Rodriguez, whose tenure was noted for significant community engagement. The transition carries a personal milestone for Wylie, who follows in the footsteps of his father, Mark Wylie, a former president of the club. Alongside Wylie, the club’s new leadership includes President-Elect Kris Johnson, Secretary Don Buckalew, and Treasurer Rick Schwall. The Conroe club continues to hold its weekly meetings every Wednesday at noon at Hacienda Jalisco, located at 1726 N. Frazier St.

At the Rotary Club of Lake Conroe, leadership is focused on sustainable growth and member experience. Vicky Rudy, general manager of the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District, has taken the gavel from Immediate Past President Don Broadwater. Rudy has outlined a clear vision for her term, emphasizing the importance of boosting club membership while encouraging members to "find joy in service." Supporting her in this mission are President-Elect Joe Vinson, Secretary John Harris, and Treasurer Shirley R. Johnson. The club meets Thursdays at noon at Incredible Pizza, 230 S. Loop 336 W. in Conroe.

The Rotary Club of The Woodlands, one of the region’s largest chapters, has tapped a veteran of the organization to lead. John Butler, who previously served as a District Governor and a past president of the Conroe chapter, has succeeded Julie Mayrant. Butler’s agenda for the coming year is comprehensive, targeting increased membership, a heightened public image for the club, and strengthened contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Butler is joined by President-Elect Sarah D. Blount, Secretary Steve Hendershot, and Treasurer Ken Kreger. The club convenes every Thursday at 11:30 a.m. at The Woodlands Resort and Conference Center.

Further east and north, the Rotary Club of East Montgomery County and the Rotary Club of Magnolia have also successfully inaugurated new leadership. In East Montgomery County, Bobby Williams has stepped up as president, succeeding Becky Hulett. The club continues to meet Tuesdays at noon at the Log Cabin Restaurant, 25264 US-59 in Porter. Meanwhile, in Magnolia, Allison Hulet has transitioned into the presidency, succeeding Terry Gold. The Magnolia club meets Tuesdays at noon at the Community Development Center at 411 Commerce St.

The shift in leadership comes at a busy time for Rotary International. Clubs across Montgomery County are currently aligning their local initiatives with global priorities, which include promoting peace, preventing disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies.

Residents interested in learning more about how these local clubs are impacting the Montgomery County area or looking to join a meeting are encouraged to visit the specific club’s website or reach out to local leadership. More information on the global impact of these efforts can be found at rotary.org.