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| Gordon McInally |
Gordon McInally Assumes Presidency of Rotary International with Mental Health Focus
Gordon McInally, a member of the Rotary Club of South Queensferry in Lothian, Scotland, is set to commence his one-year term as the president of Rotary International on July 1, 2023. During his tenure, McInally will prioritize steering this global membership service organization with a key emphasis on mental health, recognizing its vital role in promoting well-being within communities worldwide. His vision involves cultivating a culture that fosters understanding and support for mental health, while actively working to diminish stigma, raise awareness, and enhance accessibility to mental health services. With Rotary boasting 1.4 million members across 200 countries and regions, the organization remains dedicated to addressing mental health as part of its ongoing commitment to tackle pressing global challenges.
McInally expressed, "Mental health has often been an overlooked aspect of wellness. However, in a world grappling with various challenges, it is imperative that we bring mental health to the forefront. Leveraging Rotary's extensive network, we have the capacity to facilitate dialogue and support." He continued, "By placing a significant emphasis on mental health, we can make a substantial difference in communities around the world. This endeavor is about nurturing humanity for a better tomorrow."
Rotary members, including those in nearly 200 Rotary clubs throughout Scotland and worldwide, collaborate to develop and implement sustainable, community-driven projects that combat diseases, promote peace, provide clean water, support education, safeguard the well-being of mothers and children, stimulate local economies, and protect the environment. Over the past century, The Rotary Foundation—the charitable arm of Rotary—has awarded more than US$5.5 billion to support these initiatives, enabling clubs to engage in meaningful and impactful service.
As the leader of Rotary's expansive network comprising 46,000 clubs, McInally will also oversee Rotary's primary objective of eradicating polio. Through the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, in collaboration with partners, Rotary has achieved a remarkable 99.9% reduction in polio cases and contributed over US$2.6 billion, along with countless volunteer hours, to protect nearly 3 billion children from this debilitating disease.
About Gordon McInally
McInally, a graduate of dental surgery from the University of Dundee, previously owned and operated his own dental practice in Edinburgh. He has held prominent positions within charitable organizations, including serving as the chair of the East of Scotland branch of the British Paedodontic Society. McInally is also an ambassador for Bipolar UK and a patron of the UK-based nonprofit organization, Hope and Homes for Children. Since 1984, he has been an active member of Rotary, having served as president and vice president of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland. McInally and his wife, Heather, are recognized as Major Donors and Benefactors of The Rotary Foundation, in addition to being members of the Bequest Society.
Gordon McInally, the forthcoming president of Rotary International, praised the organization's ability to adapt technologically amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of continuing this approach while integrating the best practices from Rotary's storied past, with a goal to foster growth and bolster engagement. McInally emphasized that the pandemic has revealed the willingness of communities to care for one another, and he aims to encourage those who have recently embraced volunteering to join Rotary and continue their altruistic efforts.
According to McInally, the key to increasing membership lies in enhancing engagement. He underscored the significance of robust support for clubs from Rotary International, regional leaders, and district teams through active engagement. Utilizing social media platforms, Rotary will reinforce its brand identity and showcase the abundant opportunities that membership offers. Furthermore, McInally highlighted the importance of engaging with governments, corporations, and other organizations to forge meaningful partnerships.
Having owned and operated his dental practice in Edinburgh, McInally brings valuable experience to his upcoming role as Rotary International's president. He has also held various academic positions and assumed high leadership roles within Queensferry Parish. To gain further insights into McInally's vision and goals for Rotary, read his comprehensive interview and vision statement.
About Rotary
Rotary unites a global network of volunteer leaders committed to addressing the world's most urgent humanitarian challenges. With 1.4 million members across nearly 46,000 Rotary clubs spanning nearly every country, Rotary's work improves lives at both local and international levels, ranging from assisting families in need within their own communities to working tirelessly towards a polio-free world.
