At each meeting, we give one of our members (typically a newish member) the opportunity to introduce themselves. They share a few pictures, a little personal history, and their “Rotary why.” At a recent meeting, new associate member Emily Leitzinger dazzled us with her introduction in verse.
“Meet ME, Emily Leitzinger., The Gal Who Is Up for the Task!”
Now listen up friends, lend an ear if you please,
For a story that travels from mountains to seas!
It starts in Virginia, with hills rolling wide,
Where Emily once roamed the farmland with pride.
She grew up on tractors, on soil rich and deep,
With science and sunrises lulling her to sleep.
A daughter of dreamers who taught her to care,
For land, people, and futures—she took it from there!
While building with Habitat, something felt right—
She met her match, Mike, under beams and bright light.
They garden, they bake, they travel far and wide,
Then landed in New Orleans, hearts open with pride.
Fast forward a bit (not too far, mind you),
To a place where the gumbo and brass bands they blew.
Mid-City, New Orleans—her VI-BRANT new hub,
Where she chartered a brand-new Rotary Club!
She built it with laughter, with purpose and grit,
With crawfish and service and just the right wit.
And when others said, “That’s a lot on your plate!”
She smiled and said, “For SURE—let’s collaborate!”
Now don’t be surprised if she dashes off fast,
In sneakers, no less—she was born to outlast!
She’s a marathon runner, both fierce and quite kind,
With endurance in legs and in heart and in mind.
She earned her degree with intention and flair—
A Master of Science in Nonprofit care.
From LSU’s classrooms came knowledge anew,
But she learns just as much from Rotarians like you.
By day she helps farmland stay rooted and strong,
At American Farmland Trust where dreams all truly belong.
She fundraises boldly, with love and with art,
Turning missions to magic and gifts from the heart.
Now she’s got a new role (just a tiny ol’ thing):
District Governor track—yes, she’s taking her swing.
Not for the title, the pin, or the name,
But to help lift up others and strengthen the flame.
So, cheers to you all—this new Rotary crew!
Let’s make some good mischief and do what we do.
With people like you, and a plan we believe,
Just imagine what magic we’re bound to achieve!
