Midwest City Rotary Club installs new president

By Jeff Harrison

Managing Editor

The Midwest City Rotary Club welcomed new leadership last week.

Brittany Byers was sworn in as the club’s new president for 2023-24 during the weekly meeting at Wickline United Methodist Church in Midwest City.

Past president Shane Willard thanked fellow members for their support over the past year.  He presented each of the board members with a gift.

“They helped me throughout the year make decisions on the stuff that we sponsored and helped out kids with scholarships and everything we’ve done,” Willard said. “It’s been very rewarding.”

Jeanean Jones, incoming Rotary International District 5750 governor, spoke about her goals for the upcoming year before swearing in Byers. 

“I’m excited to be able to serve you in this role. The district’s purpose is really to support the clubs to be successful. I’ve gotten to enjoy some of your activities including the shrimp boil and know that you are moving and shaking and an energetic club,” Jones said. 

Jones also announced that Mukesh ‘Mack’ Patel has been selected to be the district nominee elect. 

Byers said this year the club is focusing on mental health as part of the international governor’s plan. 

“I think one thing our club can do with mental health is making sure that we’re always asking for help and never overextending ourselves,” Byers said. “That’s how we’re going to sustain ourselves. We’re a huge group that is here for one another.”

Byers introduced the incoming Midwest City Rotary board. It includes past president Shane Willard, treasurer Randy Smith, Austin Fisher, Cam Ulloa, vice president Billy Cox, secretary Margaret Mueller, James “Chili” McQuillar, Cliff Pope, Jay Orr, Patel, president elect Ben Osenga and Kelly Smithee. 

During the meeting, Willard also presented Paul Harris Fellow awards to Shawn Powell, Ronny Stevens, and Blake Matlock. Powell is now a Paul Harris Plus Three.