Rockwall Rotary Club celebrates 85 years of Service Above Self

Rockwall, TX (June 11, 2025) – The Rockwall Rotary Club recently marked a major milestone: its 85th anniversary. “An incredible feat,” said outgoing club president Darby Nielsen, who welcomed Rotarians and guests to the May 29 celebration at Rotary Hall. The evening honored decades of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a difference—true to the Rotary motto, Service Above Self.

Nielsen opened the program by thanking sponsors, attendees, and especially the Rotarians “for their lasting impact on our community.” Sponsors for the evening included Atmos Energy, Alma McClintock and Bobby Gallana, Royse City Rotary Club, Rockwall Breakfast Club, and the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce. Nielsen also applauded the dedicated event committee: Alma McClintock, Jim Eastup, Kevin Fowler, Mary Liechty, Stacy Massar, Beth McCrackin, Kayne Pierce, Jared Schweers, Harold Snyder, Barbara Wilks, Noel Williams, and Shari Williams.

As is Rotary tradition, Tim Hartley led the group in reciting the Four-Way Test:
• Is it the truth?
• Is it fair to all concerned?
• Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
• Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

The celebration offered a moment to reflect on the club’s legacy while casting an enthusiastic eye toward the future.

Past presidents of Rockwall Rotary Club celebrate the 85th anniversary. Photo by BRN Media

A Legacy of Impact

Founded in 1939 by 20 civic-minded businessmen, the Rockwall Rotary Club has served as a cornerstone of the community. Over the decades, the club has forged a reputation for action—supporting everything from local food drives and school programs to international humanitarian efforts. “We’ve built more than projects,” said Nielsen. “We’ve built relationships, trust, and a reputation for stepping up when there’s a need.”

The club’s proud history includes hosting Boy Scout Troop 314 since 1939, recognizing First Responders annually since 1985, and awarding scholarships to Rockwall High School students since 1981—and to Rockwall-Heath High School since 2008. They have also honored dozens of Paul Harris Fellows over the years, beginning with Forest Stevenson in 1979.

Former club president Kevin Fowler reflected on these decades of tradition and community service. “The mission has always remained the same—service above self. And that spirit is alive and well today.”

Investing in the Next Generation

The club is especially proud of its strong and growing connection to youth programs, including Rockwall High School’s Interact Club, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), and its robust scholarship program. Rotarian Stacy Massar has helped deepen ties with RHS Interact and sponsor Cheri Whitelock, under whose guidance the student group has grown exponentially. These students continue to raise the bar, serving as an inspiring model of leadership and community engagement.

The Rotary Club’s scholarship program has awarded more than $10 million to Rockwall ISD graduates, supporting their dreams of higher education and community leadership. “Supporting the next generation is one of the most meaningful things we do,” Nielsen said.

Cindy Tayem, the club’s first female president, shared the story of the Student of Honor program, which she helped launch in 1998. What began in a small district has grown to recognize students on more than 100 campuses—youth who lead with heart, integrity, and compassion.

Honoring the Past

The event also paid tribute to members lost over the past year. Dana Macalik offered moving reflections on Leslie Buie, Pete Snider, and Chuck Belmear—all remembered for their generosity, leadership, and joyful spirits.

Buie was celebrated for his wit, storytelling, and generous heart. Snider, a former District Governor, was remembered as a kind adventurer whose leadership helped shape District 5810 and the Rotary Foundation. Belmear, past club president and Assistant District Governor, was known for his steadfast commitment to faith, family, and community.

Rotarian Kayne Pierce recognized current and past club leadership, including District Governor John Curtis, former Assistant District Governor Greg Blair, and many past presidents. Also in attendance were Breakfast Rotary Club president Hutch Hudson and Royse City Rotary Club president Stephanie Walp—both clubs founded with support from the Rockwall Rotary Club.

Looking Forward

Rockwall Clay Shoot raised $46,000 for Rockwall student scholarships. Photo by BRN Media.

Highlighting the club’s continued momentum, Nielsen presented a check for $46,000 raised during the annual Clay Shoot—the most successful scholarship fundraiser in club history.

Incoming president Kenda Culpepper shared her vision for the future: “I’m incredibly excited and honored to serve. My goals include increasing awareness in our fast-growing community, expanding international service, and collaborating more deeply with area clubs.”

The incoming board, who will assume their roles later in June, include:

President – Kenda Culpepper
President-Elect – Kayne Pierce
Immediate Past-President – Darby Nielsen
Rotary Foundation Chair – Dana Macalik
Secretary – Mary Liechty
Treasurer – Kevin Fowler
Sergeant-at-Arms – Tim Hartley
Directors at Large – Lorne Liechty, Jeff Shell, Brian Williams
Chair of Club Service – Alma McClintock
Chair of Community Service – Gerald Hendrik and Michael Rohlf
Chair of International Service – John Curtis
Chair of Vocational Service – Dustin Ray and Lesli Johnson, Asst.
Chair of Youth Services – James Braatan and Stacy Massar
Chair of the RI Foundation – Christopher Steinsholt
Chair of Membership – Barbara Wilks
Chair of Programs – Mitch Ownby and Stan Britton, Asst.
Chair of Public Relations – Richard Redig
Chair of Fundraising – Shane Hollas and Mark Kipphut, Asst.

As Rockwall Rotary looks to the future, its mission remains unchanged: fellowship, integrity, leadership, and a heart for service. What began as a small group of local leaders has grown into a diverse, thriving club dedicated to building a better world—starting right here at home.