Page 11 - Voices! - September 2015

JOURNEYS. . .

Spotlight on Success – John Lawless
By Alexis Mason, DTM

This month’s spotlight is shining on John Lawless, last year’s area 83
Governor and this year’s Northern Division (Division G) Director.
John grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, and spent 35 years in the computer
business world as a technician. He received his Bachelor of Science
degree from Liberty University in 2005. Furthering his higher education,
he earned a Master’s in Divinity from Golden Gate Seminary in 2009 and
a Master’s in Business Administration from Corbin University in 2010.
For most people, these achievements would be enough. Not John! He
is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Theology at Columbia Evangelical
Seminary, with a target graduation date of 2017.
He is a dedicated volunteer for the Salvation Army, for Habitat for Humanity, and for Community House (a
homeless shelter in Longview, WA). He volunteers through his church’s outreach as well, teaching a community
class on Tuesday evenings, a class for senior citizens on Sunday mornings, and has participated in 2 mission
trips to Haiti.
Beyond all of that, John was ordained as a minister at the National Baptist convention in 2011. Previous honors
included Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society in 2004.
John has accomplished much in our Toastmasters world, too. Since joining in October of 2012, he has served
as VP Membership for Encouraging Words from 2013 to 2015,. He is currently serving as Club President for
the same club and Sergeant at Arms for Astoria Toastmasters. He completed his Distinguished Toastmaster
recognition in 33 months, receiving it on July 9, 2015.
John says, ”My favorite part of Toastmasters International is the opportunity to mentor other people. I receive
a great deal of joy watching people grow and achieve their goals.”
Please introduce yourself to this wonderful manat the next District event. We salute you, John Lawless!
Alexis Mason, DTM joined Toastmasters in 2000, and has served District 7 in many different roles, including District
Governor in 2006-2007. This year she is a columnist for Voices!, and is responsible for spotlighting Toastmasters
and the amazing lives they lead beyond the club walls .She is co-author of The Inspired Journey: A Woman’s
Blueprint for Spirit-Filled Living (2005), Just an Ordinary Little Dog: Barnaby’s Story (2010), and Launching Your
Business: End the Mystery - 101 Practical Tips (2011)

Volume 2 Issue 3 - SEPT 2015 11