Today marks a significant milestone in my life’s journey: I am officially a Rotarian! This moment represents the culmination of a 16-year relationship with Rotary International, beginning with my first exposure to Rotary’s values as a high school student. I’m proud to announce my membership in the Rotary Club of Austin in District 5870.
The Rotary Club of Austin: A New Chapter Begins
Our club meets every Tuesday for lunch at St. David’s Episcopal Church in downtown Austin. The location is perfect for networking and community engagement, and we welcome visitors from near and far. If you’re in the Austin area, I’d love to introduce you to our vibrant club community.
A Moment of Reflection: The Pinning Ceremony
The pinning ceremony was a beautiful moment of recognition and commitment. Here are some photos capturing this significant event:
An Open Letter to The Rotary Club of Alexandria
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
To the Rotary Club of Downtown Alexandria,
Today represents a moment I’ve been working toward for half my life. Sixteen years ago, your club sponsored my participation in Camp RYLA, setting me on a path of service and leadership that has shaped my entire adult life. I want to share with you how your investment in me has grown and flourished over these years.
My Rotary Journey: A Timeline of Growth and Impact
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1999: Camp RYLA Participant
- My first exposure to Rotary’s values and leadership principles
- The foundation of my commitment to service
- Key learnings in leadership and community engagement
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2000-2001: Rotary Youth Exchange Student
- Spent a transformative year in Oldenburg, Germany
- Developed global perspective and cultural understanding
- Built lifelong international connections
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2001-2003: RYLA Councilor
- Gave back to the program that started my journey
- Mentored new generations of young leaders
- Developed teaching and facilitation skills
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2002-2005: Rotaract Leadership
- Founded and led the Rotaract Club of LSUA
- Developed organizational and leadership skills
- Created opportunities for peer development
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2005-2006: Rotaract Club of LSU
- Served as Vice-President and Director
- Expanded my leadership experience
- Coordinated community service projects
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2010-2011: International Rotaract Leadership
- Program Chair for the 2011 RI PreConvention
- Elected to leadership positions in District 5280
- Gained international Rotary experience
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2013: Camp Enterprise
- Contributed to youth leadership development in Austin
- Connected with business leaders
- Mentored young entrepreneurs
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2015: Full Circle
- Joined the Rotary Club of Austin
- Beginning a new chapter of service
- Ready to give back to the organization that shaped me
Professional Impact: How Rotary Shaped My Career
My Rotary experience has directly influenced my professional path:
- Emergency Response: Served as Emergency Response Planner for the American Red Cross during post-Hurricane Katrina
- Entertainment Industry: Produced major music entertainment tours
- International Service: Completed Peace Corps service
- Technology Innovation: Co-founded the Brazos Technology District
- Global Business: Joined the Operations Team at Mutual Mobile
- Diplomatic Service: Future U.S. State Department Diplomat (pending appointment)
Current Endeavors and Future Goals
- Contributing to Austin’s business community growth
- Preparing for the Shafik Gabr Foundation Fellowship in Egypt
- Awaiting State Department appointment with Top Secret clearance
- Continuing to mentor young leaders
- Building international partnerships
The Power of Rotary’s Investment
The impact of Rotary’s investment in youth development cannot be overstated. My journey from RYLA camper to Rotarian demonstrates the long-term value of Rotary’s commitment to developing young leaders. The skills, values, and connections I gained through Rotary programs have been instrumental in every aspect of my life.
Looking Forward: My Commitment to Rotary’s Future
As I begin this new chapter as a Rotarian, I’m excited to:
- Continue serving my community through meaningful projects
- Mentor the next generation of leaders
- Contribute to Rotary’s global mission
- Build on the foundation you helped create
- Create new opportunities for youth development
- Strengthen international partnerships
My Complete Rotary Activity Timeline
- 2015 – Present: Rotary Club of Austin, Member
- 2013: Rotary Club of Austin, Camp Enterprise, Austin, TX
- 2010 – 11: Rotaract 2011 PreConvention, Program Chair, New Orleans, LA
- 2010 – 11: Rotaract Club of South Bay, Membership Chair (elected)
- 2010 – 11: Rotaract District 5280, Social Chair (elected)
- 2010: RYLA District 5280, Councilor, Los Angeles, CA
- 2005 – 06: Rotaract Club of LSU, Vice–President, Baton Rouge, LA
- 2005 – 06: Rotaract Club of LSU, Director, Baton Rouge, LA
- 2002 – 05: Rotaract Club of LSUA, President and Founding Member, Alexandria, LA
- 2000 – 01: Rotary Youth Exchange Student, Oldenburg, Germany
- 2001 – 03: RYLA, District 6190, Councilor, Alexandria, LA
- 1999: RYLA, District 6190, Camper, Alexandria, LA
Conclusion: A Promise to Pay It Forward
To the Rotary Club of Downtown Alexandria: Thank you for the investment you made in me 16 years ago. Your commitment to youth development has created ripples that continue to spread through my life and the lives of those I’ve been able to serve. I promise to honor this legacy by continuing to live Rotary’s values of service above self and by investing in the next generation of leaders.
Your Fellow Rotarian, Judson Moore
Are you a Rotarian or interested in joining Rotary? Share your story in the comments below! Let’s connect and continue building a stronger Rotary community together.
