Winners of the Career Day essays were Norfolk Public Schools seniors Svante Allen (left), Saqqara Carroll, Zimaris Smith, and Isaiah Mason.
The Program
Rotarian Bob Heely kicked off the program with a short history. Our club was founded in 1914; sixty years later Bob and others initiated the Career Visitation Program. It’s been going strong for over forty years. We partner with the Norfolk Public Schools to offer graduating seniors an opportunity to spend a day with a person in their preferred career field. Bob introduced Ryan Sinclair from the School Administration who works with English teachers and counselors in the five high schools to identify candidates. Then Bob matches the candidates with Rotarians. It is not always an exact fit, but the experience is always enriching for both seniors and Rotarians.
Rotarian Bob reads the essays which the students write after their experiences and he culls the gems. Sinclair noted that one of the most important lessons is the centrality of relationships in building a career. (Judge Joe Massey noted that he is still in contact with students who shadowed him and is helping one from seven years ago apply to law school. Others murmured that they have also been in contact.) The five coordinators at the high schools were also recognized: Jeremy Clark (Lake Taylor), Kirsten Bradley (Booker T. Washington), Jennifer Waters (Granby), Dale Watson (Norview) and Lenee Wade (Maury).
Many Rotarians participate in this program. Chip Vogan took his student to court with him; Judge Bruce Wilcox had his student sitting next to him on the bench. Dr. Bill Gough took students interested in medical school. Marty Raiss took an aspiring actor to meet Mal Vincent. Lisa Sands had two students behind the scenes at the Harrison Opera House. Lois Kercher ensured that her student got to visit a hospital accompanied by a nurse who could explain the constraints and opportunities in the profession. Laurie Harrison took two students to EVMS. And the list went on…
As is our custom, the four winning essay writers read their essays aloud and were then awarded gift cards. It was easy to see why they were selected: the authentic, unique voices of the writers shone through. They recounted their anxieties about meeting a stranger who was also a professional in their chosen field. They recounted the surprising insights and knowledge they gained. They were impressed and engaged. This was all the more remarkable because these seniors are busy people in their own worlds. They are juggling heavy academic schedules, awaiting acceptance letters from college, helping their families, and even having a social life. After the meeting, all Rotarians congratulated the seniors who took time to attend and also the school counselors. This valuable program provides opportunities for everyone to grow and to improve our community.
The Meeting
Sigur Whitaker led us in singing The Four Way Test and You’re a Grand Old Flag. Then President Gary Boswick led the Pledge of Allegiance. The invocation was presented by Jim Allison. Our School of the Week was P.B. Young Elementary.
Visitors & Visitation
Joe New informed us that Pam Tubbs is recovering from bilateral knee surgery. She welcomes visitors but asks that you call first as she has many hours of rehab. Mark Shaw was undergoing heart surgery. More news to follow.
Dean Rogis introduced Ned Alderman who brought Dr. Jean Thiel, director of music. The rest of our many visitors were introduced by Bob Heely as part of the program.
Announcements
- Tami Aloisa, Chuck Spence and Michael Desplaines combined to announce that Wall, Einhorn and Chernitzer have agreed to be a Major Sponsor for Suds ‘n Buds. Rotarian Angela Kerns worked in support of this initiative.
- Paul Harris Fellow awards were presented to Carlisle Wroton (PHF plus 7) and Will King (PHF plus 2).
- Michelle Tapia, president of the Old Dominion University Rotaract Club was inducted as a member.
- Sharon Laderberg announced the upcoming flexible activities.
- Laurie Harrison announced that the Rotary district grant was on track; it’s for Costa Rican farmers cooperatives.
- Diane Wallach announced that three teenagers will be going on the Tiel Exchange this summer.
Happy Bucks & Fines
- Steve Schultz contributed in support of our annual fundraiser, Suds & Buds.
- Michael Desplaines volunteered happy bucks for the successful opening of LanternAsia at the Botanical Gardens.
- Edna Baehre-Kolovani was very happy to announce the construction of the Patricia and Douglas Perry Center for Visual and Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management and the donation of the Perry Glass Wheel Studio to Tidewater Community College.
- Barry Kesser contributed in celebration of the Wahoos' victory.
- Chuck Spence also liked the victory but was happier about a new car.
- Chick Robison was happy to report on his vacation to Brazil.
- Chip Vogan donated because his alma mater, Davidson College, got into NCAA playoffs.
- President Gary announced he was changing employers and going to Wells Fargo Wealth Management;
- Linwood Beckner challenged President Gary about a possibly missing Rotary pin. But our President lifted his arms and displayed his Rotary cuff links. Touché!
- Finally, the Honorable Joe Massey complained that someone has stolen his badge. And Chick Robison’s phone went off for a future fine.
Raffle
Carlisle Wroton won the raffle ($14 in the daily pot). The book of the week was Career Day, which will go to the P. B. Young Media Center.