Joined October 2009
1,153 Photos and videos
A true testament to the power of teamwork! Leading District 36 to Select Distinguished District status is an incredible milestone in our history. πŸ†Thank you, John, for proving that no leader succeeds alone and for keeping the global standard of excellence alive at @toastmasters! 🀝🌟
πŸ“£ D36 Hall of Fame Announcement is here, featuring our District 36 Directors throughout the years! Do you remember the year we became Select Distinguished (2015-16), Toastmasters International? During our final District 36 conference, we celebrated the individuals who helped shape our District. This week, we’re highlighting… 🌟 John Kinsman, DTM β€” District Director 2015–2016 John Kinsman led District 36 to Select Distinguished status through teamwork, leadership development, and strong member engagement. During his year of service, District 36: πŸ† Achieved Select Distinguished District status πŸ“š Supported leaders through impactful TLI events 🀝 Built meaningful connections that strengthened clubs across the District 🎀 Hosted District conferences that brought members together to learn, grow, and celebrate. John led with the belief that no leader succeeds alone β€” and that a strong team lifts an entire District. Thank you, John, for the connections you built! #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
47
A masterclass in club growth and innovation! Charting a phenomenal 32 clubs across her leadership roles and launching Pathways ahead of schedule is a monumental legacy. Thank you, Dr. Okah, for modernizing our operations and showing how @toastmasters skills translate directly to real-world workplace success! πŸ“ˆπŸš€
⏳ Before we turn the page to District 220, let's celebrate the leaders who helped write District 36's story Today we honor... 🌟 Dr. Ena Okah, DTM β€” District Director 2017–2018 Dr. Ena Okah led District 36 through a transformative year of innovation, modernization, and growth β€” building on a remarkable track record of club-building leadership. As Club Growth Director, Dr. Okah added 17 new clubs to District 36. She then returned as District Director and added 15 more β€” bringing her total to 32 new clubs chartered under her leadership across both roles. During her year as District Director, District 36: πŸš€ Launched the Pathways program ahead of schedule πŸ“ˆ Added 15 new clubs through aggressive, hands-on growth strategy βš™οΈ Modernized District operations and systems πŸ’Ό Connected Toastmasters skills directly to workplace success through educational seminars Dr. Okah positioned District 36 as a forward-thinking, growth-focused District ready for the future. Thank you, Dr. Okah, for the future you helped build. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
45
Leading with a powerful vision! Danielle challenged our members to "Ignite Your F.I.R.E." and lead boldlyβ€”a spark that continues to inspire our community today. Thank you, Danielle, for lighting the way and embodying the passion for growth that defines the @toastmasters journey! πŸ”₯🌟
🎀 Every Toastmaster's journey is shaped by those who serve. At our final District 36 conference, we recognized leaders whose contributions continue to inspire members today. People like... 🌟 Danielle Derrick, DTM β€” District Director 2018–2019 Danielle Derrick led District 36 with a powerful vision: "Ignite Your F.I.R.E." β€” inspiring members to lead boldly and grow intentionally. During her year of service, District 36: πŸ”₯ Chartered new clubs and strengthened club excellence πŸ“ˆ Finished the year with strong membership engagement 🎯 Built a culture of excellence across the District πŸ’ͺ Inspired members to lead boldly and grow intentionally. Danielle asked this District to ignite its fire β€” and the District answered. Thank you, Danielle, for lighting the way. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
46
Leadership in the face of the unexpected! Pivoting an entire District to virtual platforms almost overnight takes immense agility and dedication. Thank you, Tanya, for keeping our community connected and proving that the strength of @toastmasters shines brightest during the most challenging times. πŸŒβš“
πŸ’™ The people behind District 36's success. Before District 36 becomes part of District 220, let's celebrate the leaders who helped write District 36's story. Today we honor... 🌟 Tanya Pritchett, DTM β€” District Director 2019–2020 Tanya Pritchett led District 36 through one of the most challenging periods in modern history β€” the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. During her year of service, District 36: πŸ’» Pivoted contests and engagement to virtual platforms almost overnight 🀝 Kept members connected during a season of uncertainty ⚑ Stayed energized, engaged, and growing when leadership mattered most Tanya proved that the strength of a District isn't measured in easy years β€” it's measured in the hard ones. Thank you, Tanya, for leading us through. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
42
A masterclass in excellence and resilience! Serving as District Director twiceβ€”a decade apartβ€”and achieving Distinguished District status both times is a truly historic feat. Sandra’s dedication embodies the very best of @toastmasters leadership: choosing optimism and mentoring the next generation through any challenge. πŸ†πŸŒŸ
🌠 Legacy Leaders Series During our final District 36 conference, we celebrated the individuals who helped shape our district. This week, we're highlighting... 🌟 Sandra Coles-Bell, DTM β€” District Director 2020–2021 Sandra Coles-Bell is one of District 36's most accomplished leaders β€” having served this District not once, but twice, more than a decade apart. During her first term as District Governor (2008–2009), Sandra led District 36 to its seventh consecutive Distinguished District recognition β€” a remarkable achievement that cemented her legacy as a leader defined by excellence. More than a decade later, she answered the call again β€” returning as District Director (2020–2021) to lead District 36 through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience, optimism, and innovation. During her return year of service, District 36: πŸ’» Delivered virtual educational summits and Pathways webinars πŸ“ˆ Drove membership growth initiatives during uncertain times 🎀 Hosted a fully virtual District conference πŸ† Once again achieved Distinguished District recognition. Sandra's leadership is defined by excellence, resilience, and a deep commitment to mentoring future leaders. She showed this District that optimism is not the absence of hardship β€” it is a choice a leader makes every single day. Thank you, Sandra, for answering the call β€” twice. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
24
Leading with the future in mind! From digital innovation to piloting creative tools like Canva, our leaders have always built systems designed to last. Thank you, Bonnie, for strengthening the infrastructure that allows @toastmasters members to create, connect, and thrive. πŸ› οΈπŸ’»
πŸ“– A look back at District 36 history. Throughout the years, dedicated volunteers helped District 36 grow and thrive. One of those leaders is...🌟 Bonnie L. Maidak, DTM β€” District Director 2021–2022 Bonnie Maidak led District 36 with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and leadership development. During her year of service, District 36: πŸ’» Introduced digital systems that improved continuity for future leaders 🎨 Supported creative initiatives including the Toastmasters Canva pilot program 🀝 Kept members connected through education and community-building 🌱 Strengthened resource sharing across the District Bonnie led with the future in mind β€” building tools and systems that still serve District 36 today. Thank you, Bonnie, for what you built to last. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
4
25
True leadership builds foundations that last. From navigating virtual club growth to pioneering hybrid engagement, our leaders have always risen to the challenge. Proud of how District 36 has continuously innovated to support the @toastmasters mission of strengthening healthy, sustainable clubs! 🌐πŸ’ͺ
πŸŽ‰ Recognizing the leaders behind the legacy. At our final District 36 conference, we honored past and present district leaders whose dedication strengthened our clubs and members. Today we recognize... 🌟 Annmarie Walker β€” District Director 2022–2023 Annmarie Walker led District 36 through a pivotal year of growth, stabilization, and innovation β€” building on three years of Trio service that began at the onset of COVID. During her year as District Director, District 36: 🀝 Helped charter 5 new clubs virtually πŸ’‘ Led innovative hybrid engagement initiatives, including the district-wide "It's All About You" open house to re-energize members πŸ›‘οΈ Strengthened and stabilized District 36 by investing in struggling clubs and building healthier, more sustainable ones 🎀 Closed the year with a fully in-person conference featuring keynote speakers Past International President Richard Peck and Dr. Johnny Parker πŸ† Proudly presented the Community Award to UMGC, celebrating partnership and impact Annmarie's leadership reminded District 36 that real growth isn't always measured in numbers β€” sometimes it's measured in how strong the clubs you have become. Thank you, Annmarie, for the foundation you strengthened. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
141
People join for the skills, but they stay for the community. Gwen’s leadership reminds us of the true heart behind the @toastmasters experience: creating a space where everyone belongs and grows. Celebrating a legacy of warmth and mentorship in District 36! πŸ’™πŸŒŸ
✨ Hall of Fame Spotlight As District 36 closes one chapter and joins District 220, we're celebrating the leaders who helped build our history. Meet... 🌟 Gwen Miller, DTM β€” District Director 2023–2024 Gwen Miller led District 36 with an emphasis on connection, collaboration, and member engagement. During her year of service, District 36: 🀝 Strengthened clubs and supported leaders across the District πŸ“š Built momentum through educational and leadership opportunities πŸ’› Created an environment where members felt encouraged to grow Gwen reminded District 36 that people don't just join Toastmasters for the skills β€” they stay for the way it makes them feel. Thank you, Gwen, for your warmth. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
20
Leadership isn't just about managing; it's about bringing people together. From revitalizing live events to strengthening club connections, the legacy of our leaders runs deep. Proud to see how District 36 has kept the core mission of @toastmasters aliveβ€”building confidence in every room. 🀝✨
πŸ›οΈ A District 36 legacy worth remembering. During our final District 36 conference, we recognized leaders whose service helped shape our district. Today, we spotlight... 🌟 Ramu Garapati, PM4 β€” District Director 2024–2025 Ramu Garapati guided District 36 through a year of transition and resilience. During his year of service, District 36: πŸ›οΈ Revitalized in-person engagement through open houses across the District πŸ† Successfully returned Area, Division, and District contests to live events after several years πŸ’ͺ Remained strong, connected, and focused on growth despite organizational and economic challenges. Ramu helped this District rediscover something it had missed β€” the power of being in the same room together. Thank you, Ramu, for bringing us back together. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
2
3
28
A historic milestone for our leaders! As we celebrate a centennial year of impact and prepare for the future, we are incredibly proud of the legacy built right here in District 36. Thank you to our leadership team and @toastmasters for a century of building confidence and community! 🌟 Bridge to the future:
❀️ The people behind District 36's success. Before District 36 becomes part of District 220, we're taking a moment to recognize the leaders whose service made a lasting impact. Meet... 🌟 Arvind Venugopal, DTM β€” District Director 2025–2026 Arvind Venugopal carries a responsibility unlike any leader before him β€” leading District 36 through its centennial year and its historic transition into District 220. During this milestone year, District 36 has: 🌱 Nurtured leaders and grown clubs across the District 🀝 Strengthened collaboration and mentorship throughout the organization πŸŒ‰ Emphasized connection, innovation, and preparation for what comes next 🎯 Built a high-performing leadership team ready for the future. Arvind stands at the bridge between what District 36 was β€” and what District 220 will become. Thank you, Arvind, for carrying the legacy forward. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
16
❀️ The people behind District 36's success. Before District 36 becomes part of District 220, we're taking a moment to recognize the leaders whose service made a lasting impact. Meet... 🌟 Arvind Venugopal, DTM β€” District Director 2025–2026 Arvind Venugopal carries a responsibility unlike any leader before him β€” leading District 36 through its centennial year and its historic transition into District 220. During this milestone year, District 36 has: 🌱 Nurtured leaders and grown clubs across the District 🀝 Strengthened collaboration and mentorship throughout the organization πŸŒ‰ Emphasized connection, innovation, and preparation for what comes next 🎯 Built a high-performing leadership team ready for the future. Arvind stands at the bridge between what District 36 was β€” and what District 220 will become. Thank you, Arvind, for carrying the legacy forward. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
37
πŸ›οΈ A District 36 legacy worth remembering. During our final District 36 conference, we recognized leaders whose service helped shape our district. Today, we spotlight... 🌟 Ramu Garapati, PM4 β€” District Director 2024–2025 Ramu Garapati guided District 36 through a year of transition and resilience. During his year of service, District 36: πŸ›οΈ Revitalized in-person engagement through open houses across the District πŸ† Successfully returned Area, Division, and District contests to live events after several years πŸ’ͺ Remained strong, connected, and focused on growth despite organizational and economic challenges. Ramu helped this District rediscover something it had missed β€” the power of being in the same room together. Thank you, Ramu, for bringing us back together. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
4
50
✨ Hall of Fame Spotlight As District 36 closes one chapter and joins District 220, we're celebrating the leaders who helped build our history. Meet... 🌟 Gwen Miller, DTM β€” District Director 2023–2024 Gwen Miller led District 36 with an emphasis on connection, collaboration, and member engagement. During her year of service, District 36: 🀝 Strengthened clubs and supported leaders across the District πŸ“š Built momentum through educational and leadership opportunities πŸ’› Created an environment where members felt encouraged to grow Gwen reminded District 36 that people don't just join Toastmasters for the skills β€” they stay for the way it makes them feel. Thank you, Gwen, for your warmth. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
43
πŸŽ‰ Recognizing the leaders behind the legacy. At our final District 36 conference, we honored past and present district leaders whose dedication strengthened our clubs and members. Today we recognize... 🌟 Annmarie Walker β€” District Director 2022–2023 Annmarie Walker led District 36 through a pivotal year of growth, stabilization, and innovation β€” building on three years of Trio service that began at the onset of COVID. During her year as District Director, District 36: 🀝 Helped charter 5 new clubs virtually πŸ’‘ Led innovative hybrid engagement initiatives, including the district-wide "It's All About You" open house to re-energize members πŸ›‘οΈ Strengthened and stabilized District 36 by investing in struggling clubs and building healthier, more sustainable ones 🎀 Closed the year with a fully in-person conference featuring keynote speakers Past International President Richard Peck and Dr. Johnny Parker πŸ† Proudly presented the Community Award to UMGC, celebrating partnership and impact Annmarie's leadership reminded District 36 that real growth isn't always measured in numbers β€” sometimes it's measured in how strong the clubs you have become. Thank you, Annmarie, for the foundation you strengthened. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
173
πŸ“– A look back at District 36 history. Throughout the years, dedicated volunteers helped District 36 grow and thrive. One of those leaders is...🌟 Bonnie L. Maidak, DTM β€” District Director 2021–2022 Bonnie Maidak led District 36 with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and leadership development. During her year of service, District 36: πŸ’» Introduced digital systems that improved continuity for future leaders 🎨 Supported creative initiatives including the Toastmasters Canva pilot program 🀝 Kept members connected through education and community-building 🌱 Strengthened resource sharing across the District Bonnie led with the future in mind β€” building tools and systems that still serve District 36 today. Thank you, Bonnie, for what you built to last. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
49
🌠 Legacy Leaders Series During our final District 36 conference, we celebrated the individuals who helped shape our district. This week, we're highlighting... 🌟 Sandra Coles-Bell, DTM β€” District Director 2020–2021 Sandra Coles-Bell is one of District 36's most accomplished leaders β€” having served this District not once, but twice, more than a decade apart. During her first term as District Governor (2008–2009), Sandra led District 36 to its seventh consecutive Distinguished District recognition β€” a remarkable achievement that cemented her legacy as a leader defined by excellence. More than a decade later, she answered the call again β€” returning as District Director (2020–2021) to lead District 36 through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience, optimism, and innovation. During her return year of service, District 36: πŸ’» Delivered virtual educational summits and Pathways webinars πŸ“ˆ Drove membership growth initiatives during uncertain times 🎀 Hosted a fully virtual District conference πŸ† Once again achieved Distinguished District recognition. Sandra's leadership is defined by excellence, resilience, and a deep commitment to mentoring future leaders. She showed this District that optimism is not the absence of hardship β€” it is a choice a leader makes every single day. Thank you, Sandra, for answering the call β€” twice. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
41
πŸ’™ The people behind District 36's success. Before District 36 becomes part of District 220, let's celebrate the leaders who helped write District 36's story. Today we honor... 🌟 Tanya Pritchett, DTM β€” District Director 2019–2020 Tanya Pritchett led District 36 through one of the most challenging periods in modern history β€” the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. During her year of service, District 36: πŸ’» Pivoted contests and engagement to virtual platforms almost overnight 🀝 Kept members connected during a season of uncertainty ⚑ Stayed energized, engaged, and growing when leadership mattered most Tanya proved that the strength of a District isn't measured in easy years β€” it's measured in the hard ones. Thank you, Tanya, for leading us through. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
57
🎀 Every Toastmaster's journey is shaped by those who serve. At our final District 36 conference, we recognized leaders whose contributions continue to inspire members today. People like... 🌟 Danielle Derrick, DTM β€” District Director 2018–2019 Danielle Derrick led District 36 with a powerful vision: "Ignite Your F.I.R.E." β€” inspiring members to lead boldly and grow intentionally. During her year of service, District 36: πŸ”₯ Chartered new clubs and strengthened club excellence πŸ“ˆ Finished the year with strong membership engagement 🎯 Built a culture of excellence across the District πŸ’ͺ Inspired members to lead boldly and grow intentionally. Danielle asked this District to ignite its fire β€” and the District answered. Thank you, Danielle, for lighting the way. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
64
⏳ Before we turn the page to District 220, let's celebrate the leaders who helped write District 36's story Today we honor... 🌟 Dr. Ena Okah, DTM β€” District Director 2017–2018 Dr. Ena Okah led District 36 through a transformative year of innovation, modernization, and growth β€” building on a remarkable track record of club-building leadership. As Club Growth Director, Dr. Okah added 17 new clubs to District 36. She then returned as District Director and added 15 more β€” bringing her total to 32 new clubs chartered under her leadership across both roles. During her year as District Director, District 36: πŸš€ Launched the Pathways program ahead of schedule πŸ“ˆ Added 15 new clubs through aggressive, hands-on growth strategy βš™οΈ Modernized District operations and systems πŸ’Ό Connected Toastmasters skills directly to workplace success through educational seminars Dr. Okah positioned District 36 as a forward-thinking, growth-focused District ready for the future. Thank you, Dr. Okah, for the future you helped build. πŸ’™ #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220
1
3
59
✨ Hall of Fame Spotlight As District 36 closes one chapter and joins District 220, we’re celebrating the leaders who helped build our history. Meet… 🌟 Jim Dooley, DTM β€” District Governor 2009–2010 Jim Dooley led District 36 with a theme that captured his leadership style perfectly: "You've Got a Friend in Toastmasters." During his year of service, District 36: 🀝 Chartered 13 new clubs πŸ“š Trained hundreds of officers and members through TLI events πŸŽ“ Celebrated countless educational achievements across the District. Jim's leadership helped thousands of Toastmasters keep growing as communicators and leaders β€” proving that friendship and leadership are the same thing. Thank you, Jim, for the legacy you built! #District36 #LegacyLeaders #Toastmasters #District220 @Toastmasters
1
3
12