Thank you! And, Opportunities for Personal and Professional Growth

This time of year is usually full of joy and anticipation for me. However, this year is difficult. As many of you know, I lost my 37-year-old nephew and godson, Danny, to COVID-19 this year and his funeral was just last month. I want to thank my fellow Toastmasters who supported me during this tragic time through prayers, who provided support for my nephew’s wife and 3 little boys, and to those who covered for me when I had to take time to mourn and grieve. I know that Toastmasters is a place where people come to improve their public speaking skills and leadership skills, but it is also a place to meet the most caring, thoughtful, supportive and encouraging individuals. I would not wish what my family went through with this loss on anyone and we’re still grieving, but when I was in my deepest despair, I was, and continue to be, SO GRATEFUL for my fellow Toastmasters who gave me grace, love, understanding, time, and patience. Thank you. This holiday season, please take a moment to shine your light, to hold those you love a little tighter, and to spread kindness and joy.

During this holiday season, I also want to share a note of gratitude to our volunteer leaders. It takes many hands to successfully lead and support clubs, areas, divisions, and a district. Thank you for being servant leaders, for your mentorship, and your commitment during the 2021-2022 program year. We’re halfway through the year; what are your aspirations and goals to end this program year strong!?

Here are some opportunities for you to learn and grow during the 2nd half of our Toastmasters year.

CLUB OFFICER TRAINING

Round two of club officer training began on November 1, 2021 and will end on February 28, 2022. We have many opportunities for you to gather with our trainers and your peers to complete your round two club officer training. We planned more opportunities for conversation and engagement around the following topics: 

• Building on Achievement for Continued Success
• Contests
• Club Officer Breakouts
• Prospective Member Engagement

Click on the dates below to register. If a date does not have a link, the registration is not open, yet but will be added to the D6 calendar soon. You can find all of these events on the D6 calendar. Please note that while each date is hosted by different divisions or the D6 training team, all Toastmasters are welcome to attend any of the training dates below. 

Winter TLI – February 12, 2022

We are so excited for our upcoming Winter Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) on February 12. If you are interested in submitting a proposal for an educational session, please complete our Call for Presenters form by December 29. Registration is open for this FREE event, which is open to all Toastmasters and their guests. Register today! Please see the TLI webpage for details—more information to come after the first of the year. 

The BIGGEST news to share about our TLI is that we have a VERY SPECIAL keynote speaker – Verity Price, the 2021 Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking!

PROGRAM DETAILS – COMING SOON

Welcome 8:00 AM 

Keynote Speaker 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
(2021 Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking – Verity Price)

Education Session 1 9:15 AM – 10:05 AM

Education Session 2 & Club Officer Breakouts 10:15 AM – 11:05 AM

Education Session 3 11:15 AM – 12:05 PM

Awards and Recognition 12:15 PM to 1:05 PM

NOTE: If you are a club officer attending to complete round two of club officer training, you must attend a session in EACH of the three education sessions. In education session two, please attend the club officer breakout associated with your club office role. 

D6 Annual Conference – SAVE THE DATES!

Our District 6 conference will be held on April 29 and April 30 at Mystic Lake Casino. The Conference Chairs and the District are VERY excited about coming together for this special annual event. Mystic Lake Casino has beautiful hotel rooms, exceptional banquet facilities, lounges and more – the best part is that the ENTIRE complex (including the casino) is now smoke-free. Registration information will be coming after the first of the year. For now, please save the date. 

Whew! We have a lot in store for you in 2022. We hope to see you at our upcoming events and training sessions.

Best wishes to you in 2022!

Linda