Rotarian Mitsy J. Ellis-Simpson has been installed as President of the Rotary Club of Tortola for the 2026–2027 Rotary year. Photo: Team of Reporters

President Mitsy J. Ellis-Simpson, a Paul Harris Fellow +1, was officially installed by Assistant Governor Rosemarie Flax. Members of the 2026–2027 Board of Directors were also installed during the ceremony, with incoming Assistant Governor Shan Mohamed assisting with the pinning of Rotary leadership lapels. Photo: Team of Reporters

The installation ceremony, held at Prime Restaurant on Saturday, June 6, 2026, brought together Rotarians, community leaders, government officials, business executives, sponsors, family members and friends to celebrate Rotary’s enduring commitment to service, leadership and community impact while recognising outstanding individuals whose contributions have positively transformed lives throughout the Virgin Islands.

Three distinguished Virgin Islands’ residents were honoured as Community Paul Harris Fellows, Rotary’s highest recognition for community service.

President Ellis-Simpson, a Paul Harris Fellow +1, was officially installed by Assistant Governor Rosemarie Flax. Members of the 2026–2027 Board of Directors were also installed during the ceremony, with incoming Assistant Governor Shan Mohamed assisting with the pinning of Rotary leadership lapels.

'Rotary exists to make a difference'

In accepting the responsibility of leadership, President Ellis-Simpson reflected on Rotary’s purpose and the responsibility of service.

“Rotary exists to make a difference. We exist to identify needs, bring people together and create lasting solutions. We exist to improve lives. Every project we undertake, every partnership we build and every act of service we perform is an opportunity to create lasting impact in our communities.”

Her presidential year will be guided by the theme, “Together, We Inspire Hope and Action,” which complements Rotary International’s 2026–2027 theme, “Create Lasting Impact.”

President Ellis-Simpson outlined five priorities for the year ahead: Strengthening community service initiatives, supporting youth development, expanding partnerships and collaboration, enhancing leadership and member engagement, and sharing Rotary’s story in a more meaningful way. She also highlighted healthcare as an area of personal passion and emphasized the importance of improving health outcomes through partnerships, advocacy, awareness, and service.

Particular emphasis will be placed on initiatives which support health and wellness, recognizing that stronger communities are built when individuals have access to opportunities for healthier lives.

Community Paul Harris Fellow Recipients

A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of Community Paul Harris Fellow recognitions to three distinguished individuals whose service and leadership have made a significant impact across the Virgin Islands.

Dr Arliene T. Penn was recognised for her transformational work in women’s health advocacy, cervical cancer awareness, public health education, and youth empowerment.

Andy Bradley was honoured for his decades of service to the Virgin Gorda community, his contributions to the marine industry and his unwavering commitment to helping others.

Lesmore Smith was recognised for a lifetime of service in public safety, leadership, community development, and philanthropy, positively impacting countless individuals throughout the Territory.

The Community Paul Harris Fellow recognition is among Rotary’s highest honours and is awarded to individuals whose service reflects Rotary’s guiding principle of Service Above Self.

Rotarian of the Year

The Club proudly recognised Rotarian Tiffany R. Scatliffe as Rotarian of the Year for her outstanding dedication to youth development, unwavering commitment to service, and exceptional contribution to the Rotary Club of Tortola during the 2025–2026 Rotary year.

Outgoing President Violet Thomas Gaul

The Club also expressed appreciation to Immediate Past President Violet Thomas Gaul for her leadership during the 2025-2026 Rotary year and for guiding the Club through another successful year of service to the Virgin Islands community.

New Board of Directors

The 2026–2027 Board of Directors installed during the ceremony comprises:

President - Mitsy J. Ellis-Simpson

Immediate Past President - Violet Thomas Gaul

President-Elect - Argel A. Horton

Vice President - Valerie Georges

Secretary - Ann Allen Encontre

Treasurer - Mara Samaniego

Sergeant-at-Arms - Nicoleta Bongarth

Public Image Director - Edson Boyea

Club Administration Director - Joshua Hamlet

Foundation Director - Lynette L. Harrigan-Geluk

Youth Service Director – Tiffany Scatliffe

Membership Director - Dr Sharlon Lewis-Forbes

Community Service Director - Brian Liverpool

Learning Facilitator Director - Abigail O’Neal