Scenes from the Rotary Club of Road Town's 35th anniversary celebrations. Photo: RCRT

The Rotary Club of Road Town (RCRT) celebrated its 35th Anniversary on January 7, 2026. Photo: RCRT

Scenes from the Rotary Club of Road Town's 35th anniversary celebrations. Photo: RCRT

Scenes from the Rotary Club of Road Town's 35th anniversary celebrations. Photo: RCRT

The anniversary milestone marked 35 years of service, leadership, and fellowship within the Virgin Islands community, the RCRT’s January Newsletter said. 

Past and present members, visiting Rotarians and friends of the club came together to reflect on its rich history and enduring impact. Charter members, 

Past President Melvin Stoutt, Past President Louis Potter, and charter president Ronnie W. Skelton’s attendance added special significance to the occasion. 

“Their attendance served as a powerful reminder of the vision and commitment that laid the foundation for the club’s success and longevity,” the newsletter added. 

During the anniversary meeting, members of RCRT and visiting Rotarians shared heartfelt reflections, answering questions such as when they first knew RCRT was the right club for them, what their first meeting was like, and what they hope will never change about the club. 

The newsletter added that strong fellowship, a welcoming atmosphere, meaningful service, and an unwavering commitment to community were the common themes emerging from the gathering. 

RCRT important to VI Rotary history

The Rotary Club of Road Town has cemented its place in Rotary history in the VI as it was the first club to admit women with the admission of Frances David, Margaret Penn, and Maltina Anthony-Waldron. 

These women broke barriers and paved the way for greater inclusivity within the organisation.

“This progressive step helped shape the club’s culture of diversity, equity, and opportunity values that continue to define RCRT today.”

Women in Rotary in the VI were empowered even more when Jeffrey Potter Canton became the Rotary Club of Road Town’s first female president in 1997.

2026 RCRT plans

As the club celebrates 35 years, it looks ahead with gratitude for its past and confidence in its future, continuing to live out Rotary’s motto of ‘Service Above Self’.

Among tentative plans for 2026 are Supplies Basket for Mother’s in Need in partnership with HSA Social Services Unit, Painting/Sanding of Benches at Craft Alive, Food Bank/Food Donations, Books for Babies, H. Lynden Fund Launch, Conflict Resolution in the Workplace, Petition to Ban Single Use Items. Club members will also serve as judges for the upcoming science fair in March 2026 and assist with Early Act and Interact Projects.