by Jenny Riddle Division A Director
In the heart of District 25, where eloquence and camaraderie intersect, I embarked on my journey as a Division Director for the 2024-2025 Toastmaster year. The role was both exhilarating and daunting.
My first experience as a Division Director was the D25 Advance Camp – an annual retreat held at the historic Red Lion Inn in Mineral Wells. Here, division directors gathered to meet our new area directors and unite as a district guided by the Trio, Jesse, Phylliss and Denise.
As we assembled for the first time, I was struck by the diversity and wealth of knowledge in the room. Business leaders, nurses, teachers, entrepreneurs and more, all bound by our shared passion for communication and leadership.
One of the most memorable bonding experiences was the annual scavenger hunt through Mineral Wells. Division teams collaborated to find landmarks and capture creative photos, culminating in an evening of barbecue and camaraderie.
Fueled by the knowledge and support of the Trio, the division directors, and D25 leadership, the toastmaster year began with area directors visiting clubs, conducting officer inductions, and offering unwavering support.
In July we reconvened for the District Executive Committee (DEC). These meetings are the compass, guiding us through unchartered waters. The Trio, shared wisdom on club visits, membership drives, and the delicate art of conflict resolution. Our pens raced to capture every syllable as we strategized ways to revitalize struggling clubs and recognize distinguished ones.
Then came the DEC Reports – a delightful twist in our journey. Who knew that compiling statistics and achievements could be an art form? We transformed mundane data into vibrant narratives. The judges-our fellow Toastmasters-leaned forward, eyes gleaming as the trio, the district public relations manager, the district finance manager and each division director presented their masterpieces. From butterfly-themed reports to finance comparisons with Star Wars Jedi, creativity abounded. Division A’s western- themed narrative, which the group deemed most creative, was awarded the coveted “Here We Grow” prize.
Our Area Directors, pillars of strength, deserve a standing ovation. As this new toastmaster year unfolds, they are gracefully juggling roles as mentors, cheerleader and diplomats.
As a new Division Director, I’ve already gained valuable insights and formed meaningful connections. And guess what? We’re just scratching the surface. Here’s to more learning and camaraderie ahead!
Together, we embrace the journey. Here We Grow!
