International President-Designate Danny Rodgers rocks the 2010 Optimist International Convention

It was late in the afternoon. The third business session at the Optimist International Convention in Denver, Colorado was running long due to a contested election for two seats on the Board of Directors. After four ballots International President Mark Shriver declared candidates Chris Jernigan, North Carolina and Fatima Plater, Michigan victorious and presented the 2010-2011 officers to the delegates.

And then, with a special introduction from his family and close friends, International President-Designate Danny Rodgers stepped away from the podium and gave a rousing free form introduction of himself, his family and the 2010-2011 leadership team. Key points in his presentation included:

• Leadership comes from within; we are all leaders and Optimist International needs each of us to lead right now
• Next year will not be "Danny's Year," but rather "our year" because we are all Optimist Club members working towards the same goals
• Change will occur and change is good
• Change will include online technology and forward-thinking initiatives
• Danny is approachable and anyone may reach him by phone or email

Danny's presentation was powerful in its transparency and energy. I know that he will deliver a positive experience; in fact, I think we can expect a positive, optimistic movement. 

Photo courtesy of Marc Katz, Vice President, Optimist International
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