Countdown to PELS 2027
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Why Attend Southwest PELS?
Rotary President-Elect Learning Seminars (PELS) are essential events for incoming Rotary Club Presidents to prepare for their year of service. As club presidents-elect prepare to lead and guide their club, PETS provides an incredible opportunity to learn their role and work with others to set goals.
PELS is more than leadership training. It’s an experience – and for many Rotarians, it’s one of the most memorable and inspiring experiences of their Rotary careers! You’ll have the opportunity to meet Rotary International leadership, hear from great speakers and celebrate your district’s efforts to change our world!
Southwest PELS is a partnership of 11 Rotary districts encompassing five states. The first multi-district PETS established in the United States, today it has the distinction of being one of the largest multi-district PETS in the country!
This inspiring and informative seminar exposes Presidents-Elect to the latest trends and techniques in the operation of a Rotary Club. The PETS experience is also a wonderful opportunity for great fellowship and networking with over 600 Presidents-Elect from throughout the Western United States!
This website will assist in your preparation for PELS and can also be used as a resource at any time.
Building Future Rotary Leaders!
Leadership Training & Development
The PELS Training Team has developed a diverse curriculum based on its considerable experience and on the feedback received from previous attendees. The training is aimed specifically at giving practical information and best practices to prepare incoming Presidents for their year of service to their Club. Also during our meal sessions, we are treated to some of the very best speakers in the Rotary world.
Every year this unique PELS experience transforms those selected to lead their Clubs, giving them the knowledge and confidence to lead with innovation and inspiration. PELS is a participation sport, the more you put in, the more you get out, and the more your Club will benefit.
Larry Lunsford
Rotary International President-Elect
The 2025-26 RI President Nominating Committee has unanimously nominated Larry Lunsford to serve as RI President in the 2027-28 year. Larry has been a member of the Rotary Club of Kansas City-Plaza, Missouri since 1991, and in 2013-2015 served as RI Director for Zones 30/31. From 2021-2025 he served as a Trustee of The Rotary Foundation. Barring a challenge, he will officially become the president-nominee on September 15. His first experience with Rotary was in 1981 when he received a Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship to spend the 1981-82 academic year at the University of Newcastle in Australia.
Larry has been awarded The Rotary Foundation Distinguished Service Award, The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service, and the RI Service Above Self Award. He and his wife, Jill, have two children and one grandchild. They are Major Donors, Bequest Society members, multiple Paul Harris Fellows, Benefactors of The Rotary Foundation, and Sustaining Members.
Thank you to our Sponsors
Experience global connection in Barcelona
Connect with people of action from around the world at the 2027 Rotary International Convention in Barcelona, Spain.
Share innovative projects, exchange ideas, and form connections that open new perspectives. Through interactive breakout sessions, influential speakers, and meaningful exchanges with fellow changemakers, you’ll explore fresh ways to Create Lasting Impact in your community and beyond.
In Barcelona, Rotary’s global family will come together for an exceptional experience focused on learning, collaboration, and discovery. From the energy of the convention floor to the Host Organization Committee’s Signature Events, the city itself becomes a convention feature, offering iconic architecture, rich artistic culture, and the relaxed charm of the Mediterranean coast.
Join us in Barcelona, Spain, 26-30 June, and be part of a shared experience that drives lasting change – in the world and within yourself!
