19 August 2022
As you’re no doubt aware, the Toastmasters International Convention is currently taking place in Nashville, Tennessee. Thousands of Toastmasters members from around the world — including many of the District Trios — are participating in person and on-line. We’re here to improve our public speaking skills, to receive training in the leadership roles we’re holding this year, to participate in workshops, to network and share ideas… and to witness the World Championships of Public Speaking, live, for the first time in two years.
Shortly after the opening ceremonies today, Kristi Yablonski, a member of World Headquarters staff in Colorado, interviewed me. I spoke to her about the tremendous challenges ahead, the great occasion that surrounded us — and my faith in your ability to see those challenges as the open door of possibility. The members of District 53 are well-positioned to grow personally and to succeed as clubs, Areas and Divisions in the next years, thanks to your vision, your heart, and your willingness to work together. I believe that our collective commitment to this great organization over the last two years will be rewarded — that guests and visitors will see our dedication, and our mutual respect, and want to take a role in this work we do together.
Here in Nashville, I continue to speak with Toastmasters from around the world who are similarly inspired, and inspiring. I look forward to sharing their stories with you soon!
In Toastmasters service,
John J. Hogan, DTM
District 53 Director 2022-2023