District Governor's Message

What an exciting year ahead! Our shared priorities — especially in food insecurity and literacy— speak to the very heart of Rotary’s values and our district’s deep commitment to making a meaningful impact.

To this year’s Rotary leaders: as we begin our journey together, please know I’m here to support you every step of the way. I encourage every club to answer the call to action—making an even greater impact in their communities at a time when food shortages and literacy gaps need our attention more than ever.

PolioPlus

This year, let’s re-energize Rotary’s historic PolioPlus campaign. We are this close to eradication, but a lapse in effort could lead to hundreds of thousands of new cases each year. Together, we can keep Rotary’s promise to the world.

Engagement, Reach, and Fun

Rotary’s heartbeat is service and connection. Whether through community projects or youth programs, we make a difference when we do what we do best—serve locally, think globally, and enjoy the fellowship that comes with it. A club that has fun together builds friendships, attracts new members, and keeps current ones engaged—because joy is contagious, and so is service.

Public Image

And speaking of connection—how we share our story matters. In today’s digital world, short videos are one of the most powerful ways to show Rotary in action. This year’s 30-second video contest, along with a $100 award for the best sustainable public image idea, is a fun way to spark creativity and inspire clubs to showcase their impact in fresh, authentic ways.

About Stephanie

Stephanie Philips has been a proud member of the Rotary Club of Stratford, Connecticut, since 2012. She served as Club President in 2018–19, earning the Osterman Award that year, and later received the Norm Parcells Award. A past Assistant Governor (2020–2023) and now District Governor for 2025–26, Stephanie is also a Paul Harris Fellow +5, a member of the PolioPlus Society, and a recipient of the District’s highest honor—the Donald A. Adams Outstanding Rotarian Award.

Her leadership style is known for warmth, calm resolve, and an open, collaborative spirit—qualities that inspire others to say “yes” and get involved. She’s chaired numerous committees, sponsored more than 25 new members, and led projects addressing food insecurity, homelessness, and youth opportunity.

Outside Rotary, Stephanie is retired from SLR Group, a technology consulting firm she founded in 1992. She served 14 years in elected office in Stratford and remains active with the Stratford Chamber of Commerce, CARE (Citizens Addressing Racial Equity), Bethlehem House, and several LGBTQ+ organizations.

And yes—after countless meetings, coffee remains her daily fuel. Beer was never her thing, so she learned to drink Scotch “neat, no ice” in college just to fit in—and now it’s quality Bourbon for her special drink.