PP Ann Mitchell

At the weekly meeting Past President Ann Mitchell stepped to fill the speaker’s slot with a lighthearted look at some of her life experiences outwith, and within, Rotary. 

A Gallovidian, hailing from Stranraer, Ann recalled school days that did not lead to a preferred career as a vet. Alternatives in teaching and banking did not appeal ;but her talents and abilities found good and significant outlet in the world of catering. 

Through years with utility companies, colleges of education, local authorities, the while gaining notable professional qualifications in her field - not least, a Masters degree - Ann made her mark wherever she went. 

Ann ’s years of cointinuing enjoyment in Rotary began in 2003; after Past President Tony Payne had pretty well cajoled Ann to become the first ever lady member of the club ! In pretty short time, glass ceilings were broken when Ann became the first lady Club President of the Club in 2010. That proved to be a notable year! Attending the 50th anniversary of the twinned Rotray Club of Ingolstadt that same year, Ann found herself on the platform at the Audi Auditorium as the second speaker after the Audi President, before the President of Bavaria spoke! 

Still living life to the full, Ann reflected on health issues that impacted seriously upon kith and kin. Nevertheless, Ann’s ‘up front’ attitude in face of many a challenge, again evidences the resilience found in many a good Rotarian. Club President Alice Soper proposed a deserved ‘well done’ for Ann’s spirited talk.