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COVER STORY
What has been your greatest Aha! You have filled almost every role the
Moment in your Toastmasters journey District offers, from club member to
so far? Why? District Director. What role did you enjoy
It would have to be “Toastmasters changes the most and why?
lives.” I have seen people grow and change I served as the Division B (Central) Director
for the better. Become more confident 2012-2013. It was a challenge as I lived in West
and articulate. More relaxed and able to Linn and clubs were in Eugene, Corvallis, and
speak on the fly. Deeply shy people learn to the Oregon Coast. I had the best team of Area
communicate well. Businesses are formed. Directors. Because of the distance to travel
Promotions are earned. Friendships are made. we held monthly Director phone calls on
One of the most profound changes I witnessed free conferencecall.com. We put on Area and
was when the young Ryan Avery traded in his Division Contests and two TLI’s attended by
“likes” for The World Championship of Public officers from around the district. We ended the
Speaking trophy. That is change you can take year as a President’s Distinguished Division,
to the bank. earned a division banner, and I was honored
as Division Director of the Year.
You’ve been in Toastmasters since 2009.
What are some of the highlights of your
career so far?
Number one on my list is my first
Distinguished Toastmasters Award in 2012. I
remember how hard I worked to earn it. One
by one I marked off a detailed checklist of
requirements. Some of you may remember my
mentor Past District Director Scott Stevenson.
He challenged me to earn a DTM and supported
me along the way. I remember how it felt to
stand on the stage, receive my medallion, and
accept congratulations from all the DTMs who
lined up to welcome me into their ranks.
In 2012 and 2015 I was honored as the
District 7 Toastmaster of the Year. You could
have knocked me over with a feather. It was
humbling to be recognized for my volunteer
Jim Kokocki, DTM, PIP presents Leanna with 2015-2016 efforts.
Excellence in Education award during 2016 International May 2014 I was elected District 7 Lt.
Convention in Washington, DC
8 ONE COMMUNITY
