Donald A. Adams Outstanding Rotarian Award

Donald A. Adams

Overview

The Donald A. Adams Outstanding Rotarian Award honors the legacy of Donald A. Adams, a member of the Rotary Club of New Haven, Past District Governor (1922–1923), and the 15th President of Rotary International (1925–1926).  His Rotary journey, from club service to district leadership and the presidency of Rotary International, demonstrates the lasting impact one dedicated Rotarian can have at every level of the organization.

Donald A. Adams was among the earliest Rotarians from our region to rise to Rotary International’s highest elected office, exemplifying Rotary’s enduring values of Service Above Self and broad community engagement.  In recognition of his lasting contributions, District 7980 established this award in his honor in 1975.

Each year, the award recognizes one outstanding Rotarian whose service reflects meaningful contributions across the Five Avenues of Rotary Service, with particular emphasis on impact at both the club and district levels.  Each Rotary club in District 7980 may nominate one member who is not a Past District Governor and who demonstrates sustained leadership and service consistent with the ideals Donald A. Adams championed.

Selection Process

Nominations are reviewed by a selection committee consisting of the five most recent Donald A. Adams Award recipients who can serve.  The most senior recipient serves as the Chair of the committee, providing continuity and stewardship of the award’s long-standing tradition.  The recipient is selected annually by this committee, and the award is formally announced and presented at the District Conference or Year-End Recognition event.

How to Submit a Nomination 
(must be submitted by April 1st each year)

Nominations must be submitted using the Donald A. Adams Nomination Form.  A confirmation copy will be emailed to the submitter.   

If you prefer a hard copy to print, click here to download the Donald A. Adams Outstanding Rotarian Application. Please email the completed nomination to: Kevin Reich kevin.reich2020@gmail.com.

The legacy of Donald A. Adams continues to inspire and recognize the very best of Rotary service across District 7980.

Section 1: Recipients

Section 2: Committee Members and Club (5-Year term)