Saturday Agenda
April 18
7:30 am - 9:15 am
7:30 am - 3:00 pm: Registration Desk Open
(Ballroom Lobby)
Pick up your registration packet and name badge.
Hosted Networking Breakfast + Keynote: Living Life by Intention by Krystal Zellmer (Sacajawea/Clark)
In this interactive session, Krystal Zellmer shares key principles from her bestselling book Life by Intention, guiding participants to align daily actions with core values and long-term purpose. Through experiential exercises and reflection, attendees will identify limiting beliefs, shift from reactive habits to intentional choices, and leave with practical tools to lead with greater clarity and impact.
April 18
9:30 am - 10:15 am
Safe Havens at Work: Supporting Mental Health and Recovery by Ty Reed (Empire Room)
Over 10% of the U.S. population has faced substance use or mental health challenges, making it essential for workplaces to foster recovery-friendly environments. This session explores how managers and employers can lead the way in creating inclusive cultures that support mental wellness, reduce stigma, and empower employees through empathy, policy, and practice. Participants will gain actionable strategies to build psychologically safe spaces where everyone feels valued and supported.
United Against Trafficking by Virginia McKenzie
(Native American Rooms - 2nd Floor)
With Seattle hosting the FIFA World Cup in June 2026, join the Rotary breakout session on preventing sex trafficking linked to major events. Learn effective strategies and discover how your club can join the district-wide prevention effort.
Storytelling for Influence by Chris Nakea (Lewis)
This interactive session will teach Rotarians how to craft compelling personal stories that resonate with non-Rotarians. Participants will learn to articulate their experiences and Rotary’s impact using
storytelling fundamentals like structure and emotional appeal. Through exercises and feedback, attendees will refine their narratives and gain confidence in sharing them to inspire others to join Rotary. The goal is to empower Rotarians as effective ambassadors for their clubs and Rotary’s mission.
How to Be More Productive, Persuasive and Happy by Shari Storm (Renaissance Ballroom)
Learn the art of motivating others and yourself to be more productive, effective and happy. Small changes in the way you approach your job and community activities can have a big impact on how much you and your teams are able to accomplish. This funny and insightful look at harnessing the power of persuasion to get those around you to go the extra mile at whatever you are trying to accomplish is fast-paced and highly enjoyable.
April 18
10:30 am - 11:15 am
Session to be determined (Empire Room)
Working on providing a session for this room and time slot.
Experience and Explore a Million Dollar Formula with Krystal Zellmer (Lewis)
​What do you do when you’re stuck and don’t know how to solve a problem? In this energizing session, Krystal Zellmer shares a powerful formula that has generated millions in value and can help you find clarity in moments of uncertainty. Through engaging stories and practical exercises, you’ll learn a repeatable framework to tackle challenges with confidence, creativity, and purpose.
The Journey of Fred - A Story of Survival and Resilience by Carl Roer (Renaissance Ballroom)
This session tells the story of Fred, born in 1920 in Kerpen, Germany, whose childhood in a close-knit Jewish community was shattered by the Holocaust. After surviving forced labor, Auschwitz, and a death march, he rebuilt his life in Seattle as a U.S. citizen and Holocaust educator. His son, Carl Roer, now shares his testimony to honor his legacy and inspire reflection on resilience and remembrance.
Youth Exchange: Service Through Culture by Cassie Howard (Native American Rooms - 2nd Floor)
This session explores the vital role of Youth Services in Rotary, showcasing impactful programs like RYLA, Interact, Rotaract, and youth exchanges. Participants will share experiences, discuss best practices, and collaborate on ways to mentor and engage young people through service and leadership opportunities.
Bridging the Gap: Leading Across Generations by Jeff Gross (Renaissance Ballroom)
​In this session, we’ll explore the unique characteristics, values, and communication styles of different generations—from Baby Boomers to Gen Z—and how understanding these differences can strengthen team dynamics, engagement, and performance. Participants will gain practical strategies for fostering intergenerational collaboration, improving communication, and creating inclusive environments where all age groups feel valued and empowered to contribute.impact.
April 18
11:15 am - 1:00 pm
Lunch on Your Own
Take time to explore Walla Walla’s vibrant culinary scene during Lunch on Your Own. Whether you're craving farm-to-table fare, local wine pairings, or a quick bite downtown, this midday break is your chance to enjoy the flavors of the region at your own pace.
April 18
1:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Leading with Trust – Building Relationships that Inspire Action by Libby Wagner (Lewis)
In this interactive session, participants will explore the foundational role of trust in effective leadership. Through real-world examples, guided discussions, and practical tools, attendees will learn how to cultivate authentic relationships that foster collaboration, resilience, and shared purpose. Whether leading a team, a project, or a community initiative, this session will equip Rotarians with strategies to deepen trust, navigate conflict constructively, and lead with integrity and empathy.
25 Films Filmed in Washington by Dave Drummond (Empire Room)
Dave Drummond’s talk, “25 Films Filmed in Washington,” explores the cinematic history of Washington State through the lens of a seasoned film location scout and manager. He will highlight notable films shot in various locations across the state.
Compassion Amidst the Chaos by Chris Davis, M.D.
(Renaissance Ballroom)
Compassion Amidst the Chaos is brimming with the tension, anguish, exhaustion, relief, gratitude, and compassion that are all part of a typical day at work in the ER. Travel with Dr. Chris Davis through the cases he remembers most from his 35-year career as an emergency medicine doctor.
April 18
1:45 pm - 4:00 pm
Time On Your Own to Explore and Have Fun
Spend your afternoon enjoying Walla Walla at your own pace—whether you're strolling through charming downtown shops, visiting local wineries, or simply relaxing with fellow Rotarians. This is your time to explore, have fun, and share in the fellowship that makes our community so special.
April 18
1:45 pm - 5:30 pm
Time On Your Own to Explore and Have Fun
Spend your afternoon enjoying Walla Walla at your own pace—whether you're strolling through charming downtown shops, visiting local wineries, or simply relaxing with fellow Rotarians. This is your time to explore, have fun, and share in the fellowship that makes our community so special.
April 18
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Rotary Foundation Celebration: Igniting Impact Through Service with Bev Reed (Renaissance Ballroom)
Be inspired by keynote speaker Bev Reed, Zone 27 Regional Foundation Director and a dynamic leader whose Rotary journey exemplifies service above self. This special evening will also honor District Rotarians and clubs who have achieved milestone levels of giving, recognizing their outstanding commitment to making a global impact through the Rotary Foundation. Join us for an evening of gratitude, inspiration, and community.
April 18
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
General Reception (Ballroom Lobby)
Join fellow Rotarians for a relaxed and welcoming evening reception before the district banquet. This is a great opportunity to connect with members from across the district, enjoy light refreshments, and kick off the evening’s festivities with fellowship and conversation
Banquet and Closing Keynote: Hope is a Verb, Amy Downs (Explorer Ballroom)
Join us for an inspiring banquet session featuring keynote speaker Amy Downs, a survivor of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. In her keynote, Hope is a Verb, Amy shares her extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation, showing how hope can be a powerful, active force for change.
Her story encourages audiences to move beyond passive optimism and take meaningful steps toward personal and professional growth. With warmth and authenticity, Amy empowers listeners to turn adversity into opportunity and setbacks into comebacks. You will learn how to:
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Embrace Active Hope: See hope not just as a feeling, but as a catalyst for action and meaningful change..
Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Reframe challenges as opportunities and inspire others to do the same.
Transform Trials into Triumphs: Learn practical ways to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.