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From District Leadership

Celebrating Voices Magazine:

A Farewell to this Thread of Vibrant Tapestry
in Our District!

Dr. Gwendolyn Avington

As we prepare to turn the final page of the District 7 Toastmasters Magazine, I find myself
reflecting on a decade of voices, stories, and growth. This publication has been a cornerstone of
our District’s communication and celebration, providing a platform for inspiration, education, and
connection. It is with a mix of pride, gratitude, and a touch of nostalgia that we bid farewell to
this remarkable chapter in our District’s history.

Over the past ten years, this magazine has showcased the incredible journey of our members
—their triumphs, lessons, and contributions to the Toastmasters mission of empowering
individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Through thoughtfully crafted
articles, member spotlights, and expert insights, the magazine has served as both a mirror and a
beacon: reflecting our District’s diversity and guiding us toward continued excellence. We owe an
immense debt of gratitude to Phyillis Harmon, the creator of this magazine. Her vision and dedi-
cation laid the foundation for a publication that would go on to inform, inspire, and connect our
members for a decade. Phyillis’s commitment to storytelling and excellence set a h igh standard,
and her legacy will continue to resonate within the pages of every issue produced.

This publication would not have thrived without the tireless efforts of our current editors, Leela
Seeber and Jennifer Schmidt. Their passion, creativity, and attention to detail have ensured that
each issue remained a high-quality reflection of our District’s vibrant community. Leela and
Jennifer’s collaborative spirit and dedication have kept the magazine fresh, engaging, and
representative of the diverse voices within District 7. We are deeply grateful for their leadership
and the countless hours they devoted to making this magazine the success it has been.
We have had the privilege of featuring voices from every corner of District 7 — seasoned
Toastmasters sharing their wisdom, new members chronicling their growth, and leaders offering
strategies and encouragement. Each article has been a thread in the vibrant tapestry of our
collective experience, woven together with the shared goal of fostering confident,
compassionate, and competent communicators.

The Voices! magazine publication has also been a testament to the power of storytelling.
We have celebrated personal milestones, club achievements, and District-wide initiatives.
We’ve learned from one another, drawing inspiration from the courage it takes to share one’s
journey, and the commitment required to lead with integrity and vision.

As the District 7 District Director, I want to extend our deepest appreciation to the editorial
teams, contributors, and readers who have kept this magazine alive and thriving for a decade.
Your dedication has ensured that every issue captured the essence of our community. It’s creativity,
resilience, and relentless pursuit of growth. The collaboration and passion that fueled

6 Voices!