Southwest Rotary PELS
February 19-21, 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.
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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!




LEAD WITH PURPOSE. SERVE WITH CONFIDENCE.
SOUTHWEST PELS 2027 - Where Future Rotary Club Presidents Become Extraordinary Leaders
**PREPARATION**
Gain the tools, strategies, and confidence needed to lead your club successfully from day one.
**INSPIRATION**
Rediscover your Rotary purpose and leave energized to make a greater impact in your community.
**CONNECTION**
Build lasting relationships with incoming club presidents and Rotary leaders from across the region.
**MOTIVATION**
Learn from dynamic speakers who will challenge you to think bigger, lead stronger, and serve boldly.
Southwest Presidents-Elect Leadership Seminar (PELS)**
February 19–21, 2027 | LAX Marriott**
More information available at www.SouthwestPELS.org
#southwestpels #RotaryLeadership #PeopleOfAction #futurepresidents ...
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#southwestpels - What would you tell a President Elect who is gearing up to go to Southwest PELS February 19 - 21, 2027? Calling all Presidents Elect, Assistant Governors and Partners of PE! Get ready for a magical weekend at the LAX Marriott. More information at www.SouthwestPELS.org #Rotary #PeopleOfAction #pels #rotaryinternational ...
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SWPELS is a turning point in your journey to become Club President! Step up to be your clubs President because #southwestpels will inspire and prepare you! #Rotary #PeopleOfAction ...
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“PELS was more than a training weekend, it was an investment in the leader I was about to become. I walked away with new ideas, new relationships, and a renewed confidence to lead my club with purpose. The conversations and connections I made continue to impact me today. If you’re an incoming President, don’t miss this opportunity. PELS will prepare you to lead, inspire you to serve, and connect you with people who will become part of your Rotary journey for years to come.”
— Past President
2025 PELS Alumni from Rotary District 5000 - Hawaii, USA
PELS returns February 19 - 21, 2027 | LAX Marriott
www.SouthwestPELS.org
#Rotary #PeopleOfAction #SouthwestPELS #PELS #RotaryInternational ...
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Why should a President-Elect, Assistant Governor or a Rotary Partner go to #pels ? Past President and Past District Governor Rachele shares her reason! Save the dates of February 19-21, 2027. For more information visit www.SouthwestPELS.org #Rotary #PeopleOfAction #impact #education ...
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What's the best part of #SouthwestPELS ? Listen in as Past President Maye Stacy from District 5280 shares the impact PELS had in her Rotary journey to Presidency! Save the date and join us the weekend of February 19-21, 2027! 2026-2027 Club Presidents, Partners of Presidents, and Assistant Governors are all encouraged to join us for this memorable weekend. #PELS #Rotary #PeopleofAction #RotaryLeaders ...
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What's the best part of #SouthwestPels, DG Joe Sweeney? We hope to see all our 2026-2027 Club Presidents, Assistant Governors, Partners of incoming Presidents at PELS! Save the date February 19 - 21 at the LAX Marriott! #Rotary #RotaryLeadership #PeopleOfAction ...
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Southwest PELS is more than a leadership training event, it's an unforgettable Rotary experience.
From engaging classes that provide the tools, strategies, and confidence to lead a successful club, to meaningful conversations with fellow Presidents-Elect from across the region, every moment is designed to help you grow as a Rotary leader.
Some of the best learning happens outside the classroom, during meals, fellowship events, and candid discussions where ideas are shared, challenges are discussed, and lifelong Rotary friendships are formed.
Come prepared to learn. Come ready to connect. Leave inspired to lead. We will see you at the LAX Marriott on February 19 - 21, 2027!
#SouthwestPELS #RotaryLeadership #PeopleOfAction #RotaryPresident #RotaryInternational #LeadershipDevelopment ...
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