Do you take the opportunity to invite other to Toastmasters? The very first time I heard about
Toastmasters was April 2016. I was invited to a meeting and joined right after because I
could see the value that Toastmasters offered. The one invite you extend could have the
same result. I joined to improve my public speaking with the great feedback you receive with
each speech and loved what table topics gave me with impromptu speaking. Evaluation took
me awhile to warm up to since this skill took finesse and an art form to give constructive
comments to help others improve. I am still learning new tips and techniques on evaluations
when I visit other districts and clubs.

When I started going to meetings on Saturday morning, my husband for months thought I was
going to a breakfast since I keep saying Toastmasters. I explained to him what it was and
what I hoped to gain never imagining that one day I would be elected District Director. The
friendships, mentoring and coaching has been things I have been able to incorporate in other
areas of my life. I love to learn but I love to see others grow.

This past year and half has been challenging for all Toastmasters at all levels. The
uncertainty of the pandemic coupled with the need to completely turn Toastmasters meetings
into an all virtual environment has showed us we can change and adapt. We will be stronger
as a district. We all need to remember why we joined Toastmasters then show up and step
up. Show up to meetings, events, and conferences. Step up to any challenges that you
see; club meeting roles or officer roles, event presentation or area, division, district
leadership.

One of my favorite quotes is Gandhi’s “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. Most
people are uncomfortable with change but I embrace it. I have shown up
to events, meetings, and conferences and I am stepping up to the
challenge of leadership. I want you to get your why and grow District 77.
It will take all members to show up and step up to be successful at all
levels.
Share and invite people to Toastmasters. Be the change in District 77!

I am looking forward to a fantastic year with each of you, growing our clubs and making District 77 Distinguished or higher…

Sincerely
Monica Tucker, DTM
District 77 Director