The Loss of an Inspiring Rotary Leader
Our club is mourning the passing of a long-time Rotary friend, mentor, and leader, Joan Batory. Batory, who joined Rotary in 1989, has been a core member of Philadelphia Rotary since 1999. She served as Governor of District 7450 in 2010-2011.
Joe Batory, Joan's devoted husband of 57 years, requests time to deal with this loss in his own way. He says there will not be a public viewing or funeral, as per Joan's wishes.
Club President Colin McMorrow honors Joan's memory by sharing, "Joan was a steadfast leader in Rotary. She brought endless kindness, guidance, and mentorship to everyone who knew her. We will feel her loss deeply, and are heartbroken for Joe and their family."
Past President Ken Myers describes Joan as "a pioneering force in everything she did in life, from her work with the city to the Rotary and beyond - a light who touched everyone she encountered."
According to President-Elect Carrie Sharpshair, "Joan's dedication to Rotary International and our Club was evident in everything she did. She truly exemplified the Four-Way Test and was an incredible role model for so many. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from her."
Chair of the Foundation of the Rotary Club of Philadelphia Sean Friedland says, "Joan was a dedicated Rotarian, wife, Philadelphian, and friend. She was always looking to make things better. She exemplified Service Above Self and, even while ill, was present in improving the lives of others. I will miss her mentorship, friendship and dedication."
Past President Lisa Leonard recalls Joan's endearing persistence. "When I was a relatively new Rotarian, Joan strongly encouraged me to co-chair her District Conference. I had reservations but Joan had faith in me and offered the kind of mentorship and support that helped us have a successful event the year she was Governor."
Club member Geni Klein, a friend and neighbor, says Joan's dedication to service was evident in the projects they worked on together, such as the Philadelphian Green Task Force and Rotary's Ukraine Relief Committee. "Joan and I had similar concerns about the environment and supporting Ukraine."
A photo montage of Joan through the years can be seen HERE.
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ROTARY CLUB of PHILADELPHIA
We are united with 1.2 million members, 35,000 clubs, and 16 million volunteers in 200 countries worldwide to create lasting change in our community, across the globe, and in ourselves.
Our club has been taking action locally and globally for more than 100 years through community service and granting $35,000 annually to worthy local and international causes.
Our Causes
Supporting the Environment
In support of Rotary International’s newest area of focus, our club is actively involved with projects directed at improving the environment in our local communities.
supporting education
Our club distributed over 20,000 thesauruses, dictionaries, atlases, and library books to Philadelphia children at more than 25 underserved schools.
Promoting Peace
We sponsor Rotary International Peace Fellowships for Philadelphia police lieutenants and assistant district attorneys who now teach others violence prevention in our community.
Fighting Disease
Rotary members contributed more than $1.2 billion, to help immunize more than 2 billion children in 122 countries.
Providing Clean Water
Rotary brings sustainable clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to people around the world. Our club sponsored a water well project to provide clean water in Kenya.
Saving Mothers and Children
Our club is a financial partner in a project to improve maternal health care in Uganda. This initiative links medical professionals from Drexel University and Makere University in Uganda.
Improving local communities
We are actively involved with hands-on community service projects—from food distribution for the sick and elderly to environmental cleanup activities.
This video introduces you to our members, service projects, and charitable giving. Part of Rotary International, our Center City-based club is comprised of professionals who are looking to make a difference locally and globally.
Why join us?
You’ll come together with people who share a passion for service while forging new friendships. Members share ideas, make plans, hear from the community, and catch up with friends during meetings and club programs that fuel the impact we make.
