Ayden woman Area 6 Rotarian of the Year

Paula Loftin, president and treasurer of Ayden Rotary Club No. 6136 in District 7720, has been chosen Rotarian of the Year for Area 6.

The Rotarian of the Year award recognizes outstanding contributions by a member who exemplifies the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”

Loftin was recognized at the installation of new District Governor Gene Foster, with Assistant District Governor Jack Brueckner accepting on her behalf, and Ayden Secretary Melvin Loftin making the presentation before her club members.

“Paula’s leadership fosters community service, networking, and goodwill among members,” Brueckner said. “Through the Ayden Rotary Club, she has helped establish the Ayden-Grifton Interact Club where she serves as the club adviser. Paula guides and inspires young leaders in the Interact Club, promoting service projects, character development and engaging youth and young adults in leadership roles.

“Paula’s commitment and dedication to service and to volunteering positively impacts Ayden and its residents.”

Brueckner added the award celebrates those “who truly embody Rotary’s values of service and ethical conduct.” Loftin, he said, does that.

Area 6 includes clubs in Ayden, Farmville, Tarboro and Greenville’s trio of morning, noon and evening clubs. Rotary International’s mission is to provide service to others, promote integrity and advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through its fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.

Rotarians are guided by the Four-Way Test of truth, fairness, goodwill and friendship; and through the five avenues of service: club, vocational, community, international and new generations.

Loftin, in addition to her Rotary leadership, is treasurer of the Ayden Rural Fire Association and is an East Carolina University MPA Advisory Board member, where she helps shape the curriculum and policies for the Master of Public Administration program.

Ayden Rotary Club meets on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Ayden Community Building, 548 Second St. in Ayden. It supports projects in Pitt County and internationally throughout the year. For more information on the club, email AydenRotary@aol.com.