Several district governors-elect were asked for their reaction about the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation awarding US$255 million to Rotary International in the global effort to eradicate polio. The district governors-elect attended the International Assembly on 21 January where Bill Gates made the announcement.
Shane Burr District 6910 (Georgia, USA)
"It was thrilling. When you put a man out front like [Gates], a man who doesn’t believe in failing, what it does is stir everyone up."
E.K. Sagadhevan District 3202 (parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, India)
"This is a golden period for Rotary. The entire world is recognizing Rotary’s work."
Randi Duckworth District 5830 (parts of Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, USA)
"It's going to help our efforts so much more. It gives us more credibility throughout the world to have the Gates Foundation behind us."
Charles Michael Swinford District 7870 (parts of New Hampshire and Vermont, USA)
"It's not only a challenge to all of us, but it’s become a personal challenge to Bill Gates. With that kind of support we can't fail. He’s a true partner with Rotary."
Al Marland District 7450 (Pennsylvania, USA)
"It was an exciting and very inspiring event. I think it will motivate our members to another level of commitment to eradicate polio."
Lisa Foster District 5000 (Hawaii, USA)
"I was very inspired by the fact that Gates not only gives funds but is a hands-on person. It's going to be great for the world and also for RI to have that partnership. I think we can and will end polio."