2025 Optimist International Convention Program in St. Louis, MO

2025CONVENTION

St. Louis, Missouri

June 29-July 3, 2025

Be Inspired 2025 Convention Keynote Speakers

Together, Bill C. Myers, Dan Meers, and Morgan Carter-Christian embody the spirit of resilience, inspiration, and optimism that drives our organization’s mission. Don’t miss the chance to hear from these three remarkable individuals in person!

Morgan Carter-Christian

Bringing Out the Best in Youth

Monday, June 30

Morgan is an entrepreneur, content creator, and Talent Acquisition Manager from Falls Church, VA. Drawing on resilience from a cancer diagnosis, Morgan inspires through storytelling, career development, and community work. They run a resume service, manage a food blog, recruit for a women-owned firm, and volunteer as a coach.

Dan Meers

Bringing Out the Best in Community

Tuesday, July 1

Dan Meers goes to work each day like many other men, dressed in a suit. The only difference is that instead of wearing a tie with his suit, Dan wears a tail. You see, Dan is a professional mascot.

Bill Myers

Bringing Out the Best in Ourselves

Wednesday, July 2

Bill C. Myers is an Emmy-winning author and filmmaker from Indiana. Known for the Bloodhounds Inc. series and inspirational novels, he writes about resilience, faith, and purpose. His work motivates audiences to grow compassion, creativity, and connection.

Thank you for supporting our keynote speakers.

CONVENTION PROGRAM

Sunday, June 29

Monday, June 30

Tuesday, July 1

Wednesday, July 2 1 – 7 p.m. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Build-A-Bear to Show You Care!

Optimist International has partnered with Ronald McDonald House Charities as the beneficiary of this year’s service project.

Stop by the Build-A-Bear booth on Tuesday, July 1st beginning at 11am to complete the iconic heart ceremony and instill in your bear your most optimistic wishes for the child who will receive it at one of the RMHC locations in the St Louis area. You can even name your little goodwill ambassador and fill out his/her birth certificate! All bears will be wearing an Optimist International t-shirt to remind their new families that optimism will see them through this difficult time!

SPONSORS AND DONORS

Optimist International and the International Convention Committee gratefully acknowledge the support from the following sponsors and Clubs for their contributions to the 2025 Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.

GATEWAY ARCH

$5,000 AND ABOVE

Optimist International Foundation

BUSCH STADIUM

$1,000

AMBA

Lorin Richter

MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDENS

$500

Anonymous donor from Columbia, Missouri

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

$250

Arizona District

Carol Haynes

Sandy Cyphers

TennArk District

SPONSORS AND DONORS

LIVE AUCTION ITEMS

Afghan - GATEway District

Kate Spade Satchel - Past International President Patsy Garner

Pittsburgh Steelers, Tommy Maddox, Autographed Jersey - Past International Presidents Ken and Patsy Garner

Stay at House in Montana (near river, sleeps ten) - Shane Neuman

Sterling Silver Necklace - President Jan Oord Graves

Wine Basket - Chuck Sawyer, Pacific Southwest District

SILENT AUCTION BASKETS

Alberta, Montana, Saskatchewan & Northern Wyoming

East Missouri - three baskets

GATEway - two baskets

Indiana North

Indiana South Iowa

Nebraska

Wisconsin North-Upper Michigan

Wyoming

Optimist Club of Olathe-Noon, Kansas

Pacific Southwest

Phyllis Neff

South Florida

Southern Wisconsin

TexHoma

SILENT AUCTION ITEM

Handmade Heart Necklace (pure silver) - President Jan Oord Graves

Ross and Simon Gold Necklace-Karen Monville

SPONSORS AND DONORS

A big shout out to the Members that voluntarily gave more to help offset the expenses of the international convention.

THANK YOU!

James Adams

Vernon Andren

Jodi Arriola

William Ashbee

M Joyce Bakersmith

Tolanda Beal Adams

Anthony Bell

Debra Berry

Barbara Brinkmann

Eric Brockus

Susan Bussey

Diana Carlin Pierron

Kelly Chism

Howard Crofoot

Sandy Cyphers

Debbie Davis

Teri Davis

Jasmine Dina

John Dina

Diana Drummey

Laurie Ferris

Joanne Ganske

Rick Gillespie

Barbara Grizzard

Chester Grizzard

Michael Hanshaw

Dianne Hardway

Larry Harper

Gary Joe Hatfield

Mary Hatfield

Donna Holt

Marge Hopkins

Kathy Howard

Marc Katz

Jennifer Kendo

Thomas Kendo

Al Kersey

James Kondrasuk

Marilyn Lenox

Judy Listenberger

Michel Listenberger

Kathleen Manchec

Judith Martinson

Janice Mathews

Michael Maynard

Robert McFadyen

Debra Merritt

Brian Mills

Connie Mills

Dana Monville

Karen Monville

Lorna Moseley-Grant

Jean Naeger

Phyllis Neff

James Oliver

Jo'El Pearlman

Patrick Prendergast

Paula Reyling

Nancy Roach-Wilder

Carmen Rosas

Dacia Rzchowski

Theresa Schalnat

Bob Schiller

Sandi Schmidt

Thomas Shearer

Nova Sipe

Janet Smith

Connie Sohnleitner

Andrew Stanger

Guy Templin

Linda Thompson

Thomas Wagstaff

Alicia Wallace

Stephen Wilder

Fellow Optimists,

Welcome to St. Louis, home of Optimist International Headquarters!

Of course, St. Louis is known for more than just Optimist International. While you’re in town, visit the Cardinals’ stadium (sorry, no games scheduled during our convention), discover the majestic Gateway Arch, and marvel at the incredible view from the top. Explore Forest Park and its many museums and attractions, including a world-renowned art museum and one of the best zoos in the country – both free! Enjoy a riverboat ride and be sure to visit Grant's Farm and the Missouri Botanical Garden. St. Louis brims with attractions for you to discover!

Our convention venue itself, St. Louis’s Union Station, is an architectural wonder. You'll undoubtedly appreciate its gorgeous lobby, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, and numerous amenities during the 107th Optimist International Convention.

But beyond the city's attractions, I am confident you'll find the convention’s general and breakout sessions deeply fulfilling. Countless Optimist volunteers and dedicated staff have worked diligently to craft an experience that is fun, informative, engaging, and inspiring. You will have time to learn, play, interact, and think.

A special thank you to Convention Committee Chair Phyllis Neff, Staff Liaison Ronda Vaughn, and their committee members. We also extend profound gratitude to Leadership Development Committee Chair Dan Mills, Staff Liaisons Heather Myers and Stephanie Monschein, and all the members of their committee.

These dedicated Optimists have curated a diverse range of sessions designed to appeal to every attendee. Topics range from enhancing leadership skills, fostering resilience through optimism, and building positive self-talk, as well as crucial discussions on environmental stewardship, artificial intelligence, and natural disaster response.

Thank you for being an Optimist! As Optimists, we bring out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves. Optimists excel at providing service, care, and love for our youth and communities. During these convention days, I urge you to focus on yourself and your fellow Optimists. Strive to be your best, do your best, enhance your abilities, and empower your fellow Optimists to do the same.

I look forward to spending this Convention with you, my Optimist friends! Together, we will strengthen our brainpower, willpower, and waypower — our conviction that we can find paths to achieve our goals.

Jan Oord Graves 2024-2025 Optimist International President

Fellow Optimists,

On behalf of the entire Optimist International staff, I am delighted to welcome you to the 107th International Convention in our home city of St. Louis! There is a special energy that comes from gathering in the place that has been our headquarters for so many years. We hope that while you are here, you can explore our wonderful city and all it has to offer.

From the educational workshops designed to sharpen your skills to the networking opportunities that build lifelong friendships, every element of this year’s convention has been crafted with you in mind. It is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with each other and with the core of our mission through our 2025 service projects.

This year, we are proud to partner with Build-A-Bear to create furry friends for children at local Ronald McDonald House Charities, offering them a tangible symbol of comfort and hope. Additionally, by donating to Monarch Jewelry, you will help fund life-saving work for at-risk youth and survivors of trafficking and abuse.

Together, Optimists are a powerful force for good, committed to bringing out the best in our youth, our communities, and ourselves. Enjoy your time in St. Louis, and may the optimism we share here create a ripple effect of positive change long after we return home!

Cheryl L. Brenn Executive Director

Greetings Optimists!

I want to thank all of Middle America for the welcome they have given me this past year. I have made new friends, met interesting people, and been blown away by the hospitality that has been shown to me in all regions of my district. I believe optimists are the best. This journey I have been on this past year has validated my belief that the optimists not only work for the best, but they are the best. I want to thank every person I have met this year and for every club or district meeting I attended, I wish to thank them for all they do for their communities, the children, and for themselves. I cannot imagine what this country would be like without optimism.

I am honored, on behalf of the Middle America region, to welcome you to the Optimist International Convention hosted in the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis, Missouri. Once the world’s largest, and busiest, railroad station, Union Station will now serve as the meeting place for optimists all over the world. I hope you can try famous local cuisine, attend a sporting event, or see the historical landmarks (like the Arch!) that make this city great.

Let us all make new memories and enjoy each other in our passion for and purpose of optimism. Let us promise ourselves to go forth from this convention and make optimism a way of life for ourselves and our communities.

With Optimism,

Sandra Doyle 2024-2025 Vice President Middle America

Welcome fellow Optimists and guests to “The Lou”

I want to extend a warm Midwest greeting on behalf of the East Missouri District members.

The training you receive during this convention will undoubtedly provide new ideas, projects, and fundraising opportunities for you to take back to your clubs. Attending leadership, technology, and marketing sessions will give you the tools to enhance your club and district performance. Most importantly, you will meet like-minded Optimists and share viewpoints to enrich your Optimist experience.

When you need a break after the convention, remember that St. Louis has so much to offer, and many experiences are FREE. Visit our world-class zoo and History and Art Museums in Forest Park for FREE, and attend a performance at the Muny, the oldest and largest outdoor musical theatre in the United States. The Muny is also located in beautiful Forest Park. If you arrive early, you can wait for one of the 1500 FREE seats available for each performance. Visit “the Hill” for delicious Italian food, and don’t miss Ball Park Village for a fun stop. I could go on and on, but rest assured, the friendly folks from the East Missouri District will be happy to point out the way for all kinds of entertainment.

Thanks to the Optimist International staff, East Missouri Optimist Phyllis Neff, OI Convention Committee Chair, and volunteers for planning the 107th Optimist International Convention.

Remember, we are stronger together as we build our Optimist future. May your time in St. Louis exceed your expectations. I look forward to meeting many of you in the days ahead.

Jean Naeger

2024-2025 Governor East Missouri

Greetings, Fellow Optimists

It is my utmost pleasure to welcome you to the 107th Optimist International Convention here in Missouri, the Show Me State. Being the Co-Host Governor, (Missouri has the unique honor of having two Optimist districts, West and East), I would like to welcome you, my fellow Optimist, to St. Louis, Missouri. To top it off, St. Louis also houses the headquarters of Optimist International.

The great state of Missouri is home to the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, and many natural attractions.

St. Louis itself has so many attractions that you might want to extend your visit or even return at a later date.   You’ll be able to appreciate the historic architecture at Union Station (and visit the Aquarium and the 200 ft Ferris Wheel there) and Forest Park (home of the 1904 World's Fair), with the Art and History Museums and the Zoo, is just a short distance from Union Station. The Hill is just a short drive from Union Station with many well-known Italian restaurants. Dominating the Downtown skyline is the famous Gateway Arch, built on the bank of the Mighty Mississippi River to commemorate the westward movement in the United States. You can visit the Westward Expansion Museum at its base for free then buy a ticket to ride up to the top of the arch for a great view of Downtown St. Louis. Just west of there is Grant’s Farm, home of the famous Clydesdale Horses and much more, with the home of General and President Ulysses S Grant nearby.

You are here at the Convention June 29th-July 3rd at St. Louis Union Station Hotel, a Curio Collection by Hilton. So happy that you chose not to miss this opportunity to hear great motivational speakers, attend workshops and training sessions for future leaders, speak your mind at the town hall and business meetings, and meet, network, and socialize with other fellow Optimists from all over the world. You’ll find plenty to do every day and every evening! I attended last year's convention, and it was very rewarding. I picked up a lot of ideas to help me to become a better leader in my year as Governor. Hopefully you can too.

So, Welcome to St. Louis, Missouri and together, we can all see an inspiring way of bringing out the best in our youth, in our communities, and in ourselves. Have fun!

Don Beaty 2024-2025 Governor West Missouri

Welcome Optimists!

I'm so excited to see your smiling face today at the 107th Optimist International convention in St. Louis, Missouri, the home of our Optimist International Headquarters!

I want to thank the convention committee and members of the East Missouri and West Missouri Districts for your volunteer time and input in planning a great convention. To all the attendees, thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to be here. I hope that you will have fun, learn something new, and meet new friends. I'm excited for you and what you are going to experience.

The convention was planned with our mission in mind,

Bringing out the best in youth:

• Talented youth of our area will provide entertainment at the Taste of Saint Louis, the Opening Ceremony, and the Heritage Brunch.

• Youth from The Boys and Girls Club, Scouts, and JOI Club will carry the flags of the 26 countries where Optimist Clubs are, during opening ceremonies.

• Youth from the Scouts will present the color guard at opening ceremonies.

Bringing out the best in our community:

• Our service project for our convention will benefit Monarch Jewelry. Donate your unwanted or broken jewelry and from that donation Monarch will create quality jewelry and artistic home accessories. When those items are sold, the proceeds help fund life-saving work for sex trafficking and abuse survivors, and at-risk youth. Please visit their booth in the Expo and be apart of their, “purchase with a purpose”.

Bringing out the best in Ourselves:

• Take this opportunity to refuel and gather ideas to share with your club. Attend workshops and sessions but also connect with fellow Optimists who have inspiring experiences. Ask questions and make new friends.

On your way home after this convention, I hope you can say, "I had a great time and learned valuable ideas. I met wonderful people and look forward to seeing them again soon. I found projects to implement in my club and district. It was nice visiting friends from other clubs and meeting new ones, exchanging contact information to stay in touch. No need for goodbyes, I’ll see you next year in Jacksonville, Florida!"

Lastly, thank you, President Jan for asking me to be your International Convention Chair. I was honored and had a great time.

Phyllis Neff 2024-2025 Chair International Convention Committee

DAILY ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

All the convention activities will be held St. Louis Union Station. Please note: The following schedule and meeting room assignments are subject to change.

Saturday,

June 28th

Sunday, June 29th

DAILY ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

Monday, June 30th

Bringing

Out the Best in Youth

Coffee Break Sponsored by AMBA

with Keynote Speaker Morgan Carter-Christian

Thank you to the Optimist International Foundation for supporting our keynote speakers!

DAILY ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

Tuesday, July 1st

Bringing Out the Best in Community

Coffee Break Sponsored by Optimist International Foundation

Credentials Desk ............................ 7:45 – 8:45 a.m. ................. Foyer C, First Floor On-site Registration ....................... 8 – 11 a.m. .............. Depot Registration Office, First Floor

Foundation Kiosk ........................... 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ................. Foyer C, First Floor

House of Optimism/Expo ............... 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ................ Foyers A, B, and C, First Floor

General Session ............................. 9 – 11 a.m. ............ Grand Ballroom, First Floor with Keynote Speaker Dan Meers

Build-A-Bear Heart Ceremony ....... 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ........................ Midway West

Workshops ..................................... 1 – 2 p.m., 2:15 – 3:15 p.m. and 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. (see pages 20-31 for topics and locations)

District Chair Training 1 – 3:15 p.m. (see pages 20-31 for topics and locations) On-site Registration 1 – 4 p.m. Depot Registration Office, First Floor Wm. H. Harrison Reception 5 – 6:30 p.m. Regency Ballroom C, (by invitation only) First Floor District Dinners 7 p.m.

Tournament 9 p.m. Midway West, First Floor

Thank you to the Optimist International Foundation for supporting our keynote speakers!

DAILY ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

Wednesday, July 2nd

Bringing Out the Best in Ourselves

Optimist International Foundation Past President’s Breakfast .............. 7:30 – 9 a.m. .................. Midway 5, First Floor (by invitation only) Credentials Desk ............................ 7:45 – 8:45 a.m. ................. Foyer C, First Floor

First Floor with Keynote Speaker Bill Myers

DAILY ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE

Wednesday, July 2nd

Bringing Out the Best in Ourselves

Gala Coupon Exchange ................. 1 – 4 p.m. ................. Depot Registration Office, First Floor

On-site Registration ....................... 1 – 4 p.m. ................ Depot Registration Office, First Floor

Annual Business Meeting and Closing Sessio 1:30 p.m. Grand Ballroom, First Floor

Pre-Banquet Reception 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Foyer C, First Floor

President’s Gala 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Grand Ballroom, First Floor

President’s Gala Dance 9:30 – 11:30 p.m. Grand Ballroom, First Floor (Entertainment by live band That 80’s Band)

Thursday, July 3rd

Club Presidents Elect & Lt Governors Elect Breakfast ...... 8 – 9:30 a.m. ................... Midway 5, First Floor (Hosted by President Designate Tom Kendo)

Thank you to the Optimist International Foundation for supporting our keynote speakers!

CONVENTION ENTERTAINMENT

TASTE OF ST. LOUIS

5:30 – 7 p.m.

Entertainment: JC Big Band

SUNDAY, JUNE 29

Talented youth from the local Jefferson County Area

OPENING CEREMONY

7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Parade of Flags: Color Guard-Scouts of Troop 739; Flags-Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County, Missouri, Junior Optimist Society of Festus/Crystal City, Missouri Scouts of Troop 739

National Anthem: Joleen Jorgensen

Entertainment: The Muny Kids

These acclaimed youth performance troupes have served as goodwill ambassadors to St. Louis and the surrounding region since 1994.

Live Auction: Shane Neuman, Auctioneer

GENERAL SESSION

9 – 11 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Morgan Carter-Christian

MONDAY, JUNE 30

HERITAGE OF OPTIMISM

BRUNCH

11:30 – 1 p.m.

Entertainment: Pack Dance

Our vision is to use our unlimited passion for movement to build a diverse and welcoming community rooted in wellness and equity.

TRIVIA NIGHT

8 – 10:30 p.m.

CONVENTION ENTERTAINMENT

GENERAL SESSION

9 – 11 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Dan Meers

TUESDAY,

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

9 p.m.

GENERAL SESSION

10 – 11:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Bill Myers

PRESIDENT’S GALA AND DANCE

Reception: 6:30 –7:30 p.m.

Gala: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Dance: 9:30 – 11:30 p.m.

Entertainment: That 80’S Band Rubik’s Cubes, Pac-Man, skinny ties and leg warmers—That 80s Band brings back the sound of the 80s Pop/Rock/NewWave era. Comprised of Valerie Girl (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Mick Fly (Bass/Vocals), Vic Tanny (Lead Guitar/Vocals), and Rod Springfield (Drums/Vocals), That 80s Band is a fun, high-energy recreation of the 80s music scene.

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

Welcome to Optimist International’s premier educational event! It is our goal to provide you with the opportunity to experience the best in a variety of first-class training.

All sessions are held in the St. Louis Union Station.

Please be considerate of your fellow attendees and turn off your cell phone.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Optimist Leadership Academy .................................... Midway Suite 1, First Floor (Advance Registration Required)

Heather Myers

SUNDAY, JUNE 29

9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Vice Presidents & Governors Training .........................

Midway Suite 5, First Floor

Jan Oord Graves, Daniel Mills, and Stephanie Monschein

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Vice Presidents Elect and Governors Elect Training ..............................................

Midway Suite 6, First Floor

Linda Thompson, Cheryl Brenn, Tom Kendo, Jennifer Kendo, Stephanie Monschein, and Heather Myers

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

MONDAY, JUNE 30

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Navigating Change with Confidence .....................

Midway Suites 1&2, First Floor

Change is an inevitable part of life, both personally and professionally. This workshop is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies needed to navigate change with confidence and resilience. Through a combination of interactive activities, group discussions, and personal reflection, you will learn how to manage your emotional responses, build adaptability skills, and communicate effectively during times of transition. Whether you're facing changes in your career, personal life, or within your organization, this workshop will help you develop a proactive and positive approach to change.

Jennifer Kendo and Heather Myers

Risk Management Tools and Safer Events for Clubs ....................................

Midway Suites 3&4, First Floor

This interactive workshop focuses on essential risk management practices to ensure your club events are not only successful, but also safe. In this session, you will develop invaluable skills, including: Risk assessment techniques to identify potential hazards, a comprehensive event planning checklist to guide you through the preparation process, incident response procedures that will empower you to act swiftly in case of emergencies, and effective documentation practices that will help you learn from each event through after-action reviews. Expect a blend of hands-on activities and lecture-style content that keeps you engaged and involved. We believe learning should be interactive, and we’re excited to share practical tools and templates that you can immediately apply to your events. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your event planning capabilities! Secure your spot and take the first step towards hosting safer, more organized events. Together, let’s create memorable experiences that prioritize safety and enjoyment in Optimism!

Erin Reese

Marketing Committee Presents:

Newsletter Best Practices, Marketing Tools, and External Marketing ................................................

Midway Suite 7, First Floor

The Marketing Committee is proud to present District/Club newsletter best practices and how to ensure your readers find interest and stay engaged. We’ll discuss messaging, audience, design and how to keep it fresh. Next, we’ll present a flash drive that includes a plethora of marketing tools that you’ll be able to use for your District/Club. Finally, we’ll present an update of the external content that the team has posted and the efforts we have made for our Optimist International Clubs.

Lorin Richter and the Marketing Committee

C.A.R.E. Facilitator Training: Redesigned ...................

Midway Suite 8,

First Floor

The C.A.R.E. Facilitator Training has been thoughtfully redesigned to equip Optimist members with the tools and strategies necessary to guide clubs through the C.A.R.E. process. This training ensures that member feedback is not only collected and analyzed but also communicated in ways that inspire celebration, address challenges, and promote recognition and growth. You will leave with a clear understanding of this vital role, along with practical resources to successfully implement the C.A.R.E. program, and much more.

Michael M Shue

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

MONDAY, JUNE 30

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Artificial IntelligenceWhen Did it Start and Where is it Going? ..................

Midway Suite 11, First Floor

This session introduces the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, clarifying what AI is and how it has evolved to become part of daily life. The discussion will highlight emerging trends and practical applications, including ways AI can improve coordination, outreach, and service delivery for community-focused work. Key opportunities and ethical considerations surrounding AI adoption will be examined. The session will conclude with a forward-looking overview of where AI is headed by 2030 and what to expect as intelligent systems become increasingly integrated into society.

James Hutson

1:30 – 3:45 p.m.

District/Club Foundation Representatives

Discussion and Training ...............................................

Midway Suite 5, First Floor

This Optimist International Foundation training will provide strategies for planning a successful year for Club Foundation Representatives (CFRs) and District Foundation Representatives (DFRs). It is focused on those serving this year and those members interested in serving in these positions next Optimist year. It will be fun, interactive and informative. We together will develop an Action Plan for your success, discuss your role and responsibilities as CFRs and DFRs, and will provide you with helpful tips and materials that will allow you and your district to meet its goals and thereby, continue “Helping Optimists, Help Kids.”

Deanna S Morrow and Fatima N Plater

Club Secretary/Treasurer Discussion ..........................

Midway Suite 6, First Floor

All Club Secretaries, Club Treasurers and Club Secretary-Treasurers are invited to come to this discussion to talk about the ins and outs of these club positions and learn from others some of the strategies to make these positions easier.

District Leadership Development Chair Training ........

Midway Suite 9, First Floor

This session will give District Leadership Development Chairs the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in cultivating emerging district leaders and to be successful in providing contemporary state-of-the-art training to optimists worldwide.

Linda Thompson

District Growth Chair Training ....................................

Midway Suite 10, First Floor

During this session, we will talk about the role of the OI Growth Committee and what is wanted and needed in order for it to provide support to districts. We will identify needs in terms of resources, tools, training and supports to facilitate growth. We will talk about the importance of team work within your regions and districts.

Rick Gillespie

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

MONDAY, JUNE 30

2:45 – 3:45 p.m.

Canva 101: Unleash Your Creativity ......................

Midway Suites 1&2, First Floor

Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop designed to introduce you to the basics of Canva, a powerful and user-friendly graphic design tool. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to enhance your design skills, this workshop will guide you through the essential features and functionalities of Canva. You'll learn how to create stunning visuals for social media, presentations, marketing materials, and more. By the end of the session, you'll have the confidence to design eye-catching graphics that stand out. Bring your creativity (and your laptop!) and get ready to explore the endless possibilities with Canva!

Heather Myers

Leadership and Making Connections-

Personality at Play ..................................................

Midway Suites 3&4, First Floor

What makes you tick? Ever wish you could connect with people better? Find your personality strengths and then use them to help spread optimism. Gain insights into your own strengths and learn how to connect with others more effectively. Imagine being able to communicate better with your club, friends, and fellow volunteers, ultimately leading to more successful events! In this class, we’ll dive into popular personality assessments, including: Myers-Briggs Type Indicator: Discover your personality type and how it influences your interactions, Big Five Personality Traits: Understand the five core traits that shape our behaviors, DISC Assessment: Learn about different communication styles and how to adapt to them, and Enneagram: Explore the nine personality types and their motivations. Each of these assessments provides a unique lens through which to view yourself and your relationships, paving the way for deeper understanding and collaboration. By the end of this class, you will develop valuable skills, including: Enhanced Self-Awareness: Recognize your own traits and how they affect your interactions, Improved Communication: Learn strategies to communicate more effectively with diverse personalities, Understanding Team Dynamics: Gain insights into how different personalities work together, and Event Planning Strategies: Utilize your newfound knowledge to create inclusive and successful events.

Erin Reese

Working with your local

Ronald McDonald House Charities ................................................

Midway Suite 7

Overview of opportunities for Optimist Clubs to work in partnership with RMHC.

Meredith Siegfried, Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

MONDAY, JUNE 30

2:45 – 3:45 p.m.

Navigating MemberSHIP Engagement ........................................... Midway Suite 8

How do you engage every member of your club? Join us for a session on MemberSHIP Engagement, where we’ll explore strategies to engage new members, keep current members engaged, and re-engage those who may have drifted away. Learn effective techniques for welcoming new members, maintaining excitement among engaged members, and reigniting the passion of non-engaged members who have fallen off. Strengthen your club’s engagement and build lasting relationships!

Michael M Shue and Members of the Membership Engagement Committee

Artificial IntelligenceWhen Did it Start and Where is it Going? ..................

Midway Suite 11, First Floor

This session introduces the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, clarifying what AI is and how it has evolved to become part of daily life. The discussion will highlight emerging trends and practical applications, including ways AI can improve coordination, outreach, and service delivery for community-focused work. Key opportunities and ethical considerations surrounding AI adoption will be examined. The session will conclude with a forward-looking overview of where AI is headed by 2030 and what to expect as intelligent systems become increasingly integrated into society.

James Hutson

4 – 5 p.m.

Member Feedback Session ........................................

Grand Ballroom, First Floor

Join us for an open and engaging session designed to hear directly from you—our valued members. Your feedback plays a vital role in shaping our initiatives and ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our diverse membership. This is your opportunity to be heard and help influence positive change.

Cheryl Brenn and Patrick Prendergast

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

1 – 2 P.M.

Hobbies That Boost Brainpower:

Engaging the Mind at Any Age ..............................

Midway Suites 1&2, First Floor

Discover how everyday hobbies can help keep your mind sharp, your mood lifted, and your memory strong! In this fun and interactive session designed specifically for adults, we’ll explore the science behind brain health and how engaging in creative, physical, and intellectual activities can support lifelong mental agility. From puzzles and painting to gardening and journaling, you’ll learn how to choose hobbies that stimulate different parts of the brain—and why it’s never too late to try something new. The session includes interactive activities and practical tips, as well as lots of ideas to inspire your next favorite pastime.

Heather Myers

Risk Management Tools and Safer Events for Clubs

Midway Suites 3&4

This interactive workshop focuses on essential risk management practices to ensure your club events are not only successful, but also safe. In this session, you will develop invaluable skills, including: Risk assessment techniques to identify potential hazards, a comprehensive event planning checklist to guide you through the preparation process, incident response procedures that will empower you to act swiftly in case of emergencies, and effective documentation practices that will help you learn from each event through after-action reviews. Expect a blend of hands-on activities and lecture-style content that keeps you engaged and involved. We believe learning should be interactive, and we’re excited to share practical tools and templates that you can immediately apply to your events. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your event planning capabilities! Secure your spot and take the first step towards hosting safer, more organized events. Together, let’s create memorable experiences that prioritize safety and enjoyment in Optimism!

Erin Reese

The Value of Giving: Everyone Benefits from Generosity

Midway Suite 5, First Floor

In this workshop, we will explore the impact of giving and how each of us can make a difference in creating a world filled with optimism and kindness. Whether it’s donating your contributions and your time, sharing your talents, or simply offering a small act of generosity, every effort matters. We’ll discuss the true value of giving—not just what we give, but the joy we bring to others and the connections we make along the way. You’ll also learn why supporting the Optimist International Foundation and the Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation is so vitally important to our cause. Join us as we reflect on how giving shapes our lives and helps build a brighter future filled with opportunity and hope for all.

OIF Board of Directors

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

1 – 2 P.M.

Keeping Kids Safe Online: Practical Tips & How You Can Make a Difference Through Monarch ..........................

Midway Suite 7, First Floor

With the rise of online exploitation, protecting children in digital spaces is more critical than ever. Crisis Aid International’s U.S. Safe program specializes in internet safety education and advocacy for children and families, providing essential tools to prevent online child sexual exploitation. This session will explore real-world risks, including grooming, trafficking, and social media dangers, while offering actionable strategies for parents and caregivers to safeguard children. Attendees will learn how U.S. Safe works alongside law enforcement and community partners to respond to threats and support survivors. The session will conclude with information on how you can help your community through Monarch.

Jenny Michaud & Lauren Peffley

OWLS: Collaborating with Your Community’s Schools ..........................................

Midway Suite 8, First Floor

Optimists Working for Learning Success (OWLS)—a community-focused initiative that helps Clubs support students by partnering with local schools. Through projects that provide essentials like school supplies, clothing, food, and mentoring, OWLS addresses real needs while strengthening community ties. This session will explain how the program works, share examples from successful Clubs, and show how OWLS can inspire new members, increase visibility, and make a lasting impact on youth in our communities.

Amy Keller & Cheryl Brenn, Optimist International Executive Director

The Art & Science of Thinking on your Feet like an Improviser at Work .........................................

Midway Suite 11, First Floor

You'll learn to think on your feet, to work more effectively as a team and to be more confident in every situation. No one has to perform but everyone will be participating, laughing and learning! Improvisers are fully present, listen for understanding, collaborate, accept new ideas and situations with ease--and so will you. You will have personal realizations about yourself. That's where you will grow and so will your business!

Mike McGuire

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

1 – 3:15 p.m.

Club President Discussion ...................................Regency Ballroom A, First Floor

All Club Presidents are invited to come to this discussion to talk about the ins and outs of this position and learn from others some of the strategies to make this position easier.

Lieutenant Governor Discussion ........................ Regency Ballroom B, First Floor

All Lieutenant Governors are invited to come to this discussion to talk about the ins and outs of this position and learn from others some of the strategies to make this position easier.

District Marketing Chair Training ................................. Midway Suite 6, First Floor

Engage and Inspire: Effective Marketing Strategies for Your District

Lorin Richter

District Secretary/Treasurer Training ........................... Midway Suite 9, First Floor

All 2025-2026 District Secretary-Treasurers, District Secretaries, and District Treasurers are invited to come to this training and discussion to learn and talk about the ins and outs of these essential district positions and learn from others some of the strategies to make these positions easier.

Sandi Schmidt

District Member Engagement Chair Training ............

Midway Suite 10, First Floor

This training will equip you with resources developed by the International Membership Engagement Committee for both this Optimist year and past years. You’ll gain valuable tools to boost member pride, promote ongoing involvement, and create a welcoming environment, empowering you to help clubs in your district grow and succeed. Whether you're building on past membership engagement successes or introducing new strategies, you’ll have everything you need to engage all members—new, currently engaged, and even those less involved—and make a lasting impact on your Optimist community.

Michael M Shue

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

2:15 – 3:15 p.m.

Optimist DREAM: District Resources for the Engagement and Achievement of Members .........

Midway Suites 1&2, First Floor

Join members of the 2024-2025 OI Leadership Development Committee to learn about Optimist DREAM – a district leadership development program to help prepare your members for club and district leadership roles. The Committee will introduce you to the program and the resources that will be provided for districts to deliver this program! Highly encouraged for 2025-2026 district leadership development chairs!

Heather Myers, Daniel Mills, Michael E Brown & Marcia Streete Hendricks

Stronger Together: Strategies for Effective Teambuilding ....................

Midway Suites 3&4, First Floor

Team building is essential for developing strong, united teams that can successfully meet goals and drive results. This training will offer a comprehensive approach to team building, focusing on strategies to foster collaboration, communication, and teamwork. Participants will learn key principles and explore effective techniques for creating supportive, highperforming teams that deliver success. With a blend of theory and practical application, this session will empower you to maximize your team’s full potential. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the strength within your team and achieve outstanding results!

Deanna S Morrow

OIF Grants: There is $ to be Had .....Midway Suite 5, First Floor

A general overview of the Optimist International Grant process to benefit Clubs doing projects in their local communities. The basics for Childhood Health and Wellness Grant and Club Grant will be review. We will also look at successful grants from the past year to share key points of their application.

Ben DeRemer, OIF President and Craig Boring, OIF Executive Director

How to Plan District Conferences and Conventions ....................................

Midway Suite 7, First Floor

A practical “how to” session with ideas on determining site selection, hotel selection, vendor selection, budgets and contract negotiations for District Conferences and Conventions. This workshop also features discussions on preparing your conference agendas.

Ronda Vaughn

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

2:15 – 3:15 p.m.

Civility First: The Art of Thoughtful Discourse ............ Midway Suite 8, First Floor

In this session, you’ll discover how thoughtful, respectful conversations can make all the difference in your Club and volunteer work. Together, we’ll explore simple ways to listen, share ideas, and handle disagreements with kindness and understanding. You’ll leave with practical tips and new confidence to help create a welcoming, positive environment in your club and community. Let’s put civility first and make every conversation count!

Cheryl Brenn, Optimist International Executive Director

Removing the Barriers to the Ask ..............................

Midway Suite 11, First Floor

This workshop will help members remove barriers they face when asking others to become part of the Optimist family. This will include examples for the initial ask, how to combat objections and to motivate participants to return home with the tools they need to grow membership in their Clubs and Districts.

James R Boyd

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Using Artificial Intelligence to Benefit Your Club ...............................................

Midway Suites 1&2, First Floor

In this engaging and interactive workshop, participants will explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing the operations and impact of your club. Whether using these ideas for your Optimist Club or for another organization you are part of, this workshop will provide you with practical insights and tools to leverage AI for the greater good. Key topics covered include increasing and engaging membership, marketing and communication, fundraising, and events.

Heather Myers

Leadership for Women:

Unlocking Your Full Potential .................................

Midway Suites 3&4, First Floor

Join us for an enlightening workshop designed to inspire, uplift, and equip women to excel in leadership roles. Together we will explore the unique challenges and opportunities that women face in leadership positions, while providing practical strategies to overcome selfdoubt, obstacles, and build confidence. Whether you're in a leadership position already or aspiring to take on more responsibility, this session will equip you with strategies for effective communication, decision-making, and team building. You’ll leave with tools and a mindset to develop your abilities and unlock your full potential as a leader.

Deanna S Morrow

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Unlocking Opportunities Through Optimist Scholarships ... Midway 5, First Floor

Join the International Scholarship Committee for an in-depth look at Optimist International’s three signature scholarship programs: the Oratorical Contest, the Communication Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH), and the Essay Contest. This workshop will provide valuable insights into eligibility requirements, judging guidelines, and best practices for hosting local and district-level competitions. Learn how these programs empower youth to share their voices—whether spoken, signed, or written—and how your club can elevate participation and impact in your community. Whether you're new to the contests or a seasoned organizer, you'll leave with practical tools, resources, and inspiration to help shape tomorrow’s leaders.

Members of the Scholarship Committee

Choosing

the Best of

the Best:

De-Mystifying How the Candidate Qualification Committee Works ...................................

Midway Suite 6, First Floor

Have you ever wondered how the decision-making process used to select the nominees for our International Officers works? During this session, the members of the Candidate Qualifications Committee will provide you with an overview of the step-by-step process the committee members go through to select the" Best of the Best” candidates for the International President-Elect, Regional Vice Presidents, and the Board of Directors. Committee members will also be prepared to answer your questions regarding the strategies and steps you should take should you aspire to seek one of these leadership positions.

Rebecca Butler-Mona and the Candidate Qualifications Committee

The Power of Wonder ..................................................

Midway Suite 7, First Floor Wonder is often viewed as a fleeting emotion, experienced in moments of awe or discovery. However, the power of wonder extends far beyond these brief encounters. It is a gateway to deepening curiosity, creativity, and understanding of personal lives and the world around us. This session will be interactive, incorporating thought-provoking questions and visuals to engage the audience. There will be opportunities for attendees to share their own experiences with wonder. Strategies will be presented on how to cultivate optimism as it connects to wonder; there will be interactive exercises to enhance the learning, inspiring the audience to incorporate wonder into their daily lives creating a more fulfilling daily experience.

Daniel Mills

A New Club Project: Working to End Period Poverty ...................................

Midway Suite 8, First Floor

A community volunteer saw the need to supply period products to girls in foster care attending the local school. The Aunt Rose Project supplies educational materials and period products through schools and agencies serving young women. The Twin City Optimist Club supported this project and expanded the services to include puberty education materials and hygiene items for young men in foster care.

Carroll L Metzger and Renee Gerlach

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS

TUESDAY, JULY 1

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Let's put the FUN in FUNdraising ................................ Midway Suite 9, First Floor

Whether you are a member looking to incorporate new ideas into your club, a foundation representative looking for new ideas to support your Foundation, or an individual interested in exploring fundraising opportunities for club events, OIF, or CCOF, this session will provide valuable strategies to enhance your success while enjoying the process. Engage in a hands-on experience and discover the exciting potential of FUNdraising.

Susan Fix

C.A.R.E. Facilitator Training: Redesigned ................. Midway Suite 10, First Floor

The C.A.R.E. Facilitator Training has been thoughtfully redesigned to equip Optimist members with the tools and strategies necessary to guide clubs through the C.A.R.E. process. This training ensures that member feedback is not only collected and analyzed but also communicated in ways that inspire celebration, address challenges, and promote recognition and growth. You will leave with a clear understanding of this vital role, along with practical resources to successfully implement the C.A.R.E. program, and much more.

Michael M Shue and Members of the Membership Engagement Committee

From Yawns to Yes!

Creating Dynamic & Engaging Meetings ................... Midway Suite 11, First Floor

The purpose of this workshop is to equip Optimist members with effective strategies to increase engagement, participation, productivity, teamwork, and fun during Optimist gatherings. Come prepared to "be the change" you want to see in meetings. WARNING: You will be engaged in this workshop!

Kristi "Cricket" Palmer & Jane Schmidt

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION PROPERTY OVERVIEW LAYOUT

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

FIRST FLOOR MEETING SPACE

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

SECOND FLOOR MEETING SPACE

Second Floor

Second Floor

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

WAYFINDER PAGE ONE

Classic Elegance.

Distinctive Charm.

Spectacularly fun!

Welcome to St. Louis Union Station Hotel

Thank you for choosing our Four Diamond Hotel and home of the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Staion and The St. Louis Wheel. Enjoy a quietly luxurious and Unique experience, with distinctive one-of-a-kind amenities and services. Whether you're here to experience the intrigue or looking for a splashin' good time, there's entertainment and fun for the whole family and the drinks, eats, and aperitifs for all appetites.

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

WAYFINDER PAGE TWO

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

WAYFINDER

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

WAYFINDER PAGE FOUR

TICKET INFORMATION

1. All pre-paid tickets will be included in your registration packet.

2. Tickets will not be sold at the door of a meal event.

3. Sergeants will collect your ticket at each meal function, and no one will be admitted to a meal function without a ticket.

4. If you have a special meal request, there should be a label on the back of your ticket. Show your ticket to the sergeant at the door, point out you have a sticker on the back of your ticket, take your ticket with you to your seat and hand it to your table server so he/she can deliver the appropriate meal.

5. A fully registered Member can pay registration and group meals for nonregistered guests.

6. Additional tickets may be purchased for persons registered on site at the OnSite Registration Desk if space is available.

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE:

Taste of St. Louis (Sunday, June 29) ................................................................ $50.00 US / 68.00$ CAD

Heritage of Optimism Brunch (Monday, June 30) $61.00 US / 82.96$ CAD Together we honor our Past International Presidents & their Very Important Partners

Trivia Night (Monday, June 30) ...............................................................

$30.00 US / 40.80$ CAD $250.00 US / 240$ CAD Per Table Of 10 (Maximum Of 10 People Per Table)

Cornhole Tournament (Tuesday, July 1) .......................................................... $20 US / 27.20$ CAD (Single) $40 US / 54.40$ CAD (Team of Two)

President’s Gala & Dance (Wednesday, July 2) ................................................................ $91 US / 123.76$ CAD DON’T FORGET TO EXCHANGE YOUR COUPON FOR A TABLE NUMBER

Club Presidents-Elect and Lt. Governors-Elect Breakfast (Thursday, July 3) ................................................................. $50.00 US / 68.00$ CAD Hosted by President Designate Tom Kendo

TICKET INFORMATION

Non-Member Guest Fees (Must Be a Guest Of A Registered Member):

Taste of St. Louis (Sunday, June 29) $61.00 USD / 82.96$ CAD

Opening Ceremony (Sunday, June 29) .................................................................. $70 USD / 95.20$ CAD

General Session (Monday, June 30) ................................................................. $70 USD / 95.20$ CAD

Heritage of Optimism Brunch (Monday, June 30) $71 USD / 96.56$ CAD

Trivia Night (Monday, June 30) ........................................... $30.00 US / 40.80$ CAD per person

Trivia Night (Monday, June 30) ...................................... $250.00 US / 240$ CAD Per Table of 10 (Maximum of 10 People Per Table)

General Session (Tuesday, July 1) .............................................................. $70.00 USD / 95.20$ CAD

Cornhole Tournament (Tuesday, July 1) ................................................................... $20 USD / 27.20$ CAD

General Session, Town Hall, and Annual Business Meeting (Wednesday, July 2) $70.00 US / 95.20$ CAD

President's Gala & Dance (Wednesday, July 2) $101.00 US / 137.36$ CAD

TICKET SWAP:

If you are not able to attend a ticket event, you can turn your ticket into the on-site registration desk, if OI is able to resell your ticket, a refund will be issued.

ACCREDITED DELEGATE INFORMATION

(Note: These rules are subject to change and will be voted on by the Delegates at the International Convention prior to any formal business being conducted)

GENERAL PROVISIONS:

A. The convention will be composed of accredited delegates.

B. A delegate is a Member of an Optimist Club in good standing who has registered at the convention and been certified by the Credentials Committee. "Good standing" means the delegate’s Club is not in arrears in payment of dues or other financial obligations to Optimist International and the Club’s District.

C. The adoption of the convention rules shall be by a majority of the votes cast by accredited delegates. Subsequently, the convention rules may be amended, suspended or rescinded by two-thirds of the votes cast by accredited delegates.

D. Robert’s Rules of Order shall govern in all cases not covered by the Optimist International Bylaws or these Convention Rules.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A DELEGATE:

A. Accredited delegates have the privilege and honor of representing their Club at this Optimist International Convention. This voting privilege is also a solemn duty.

B. It is the responsibility of each accredited delegate to attend all business sessions of the convention, participate fully by listening, debating the issues within the framework of the convention rules and voting on issues.

C. The direction of Optimist International for the coming years depends in large part on the measures decided by the delegates to this convention. A failure to meet this responsibility is a failure to represent your constituency.

ACCREDITED DELEGATE INFORMATION

(Note: These rules are subject to change and will be voted on by the Delegates at the International Convention prior to any formal business to be conducted)

PARLIAMENTARY POINTERS:

A. Subsidiary motions are motions that pertain to the main motion while it is pending.

B. Most incidental motions arise out of another question that is pending and must be decided before the question out of which they arise is decided.

C. Before a motion is stated by the chair it may be withdrawn or modified by the maker. After it is stated by the chair it may be withdrawn by majority vote of the assembly and is frequently settled by unanimous consent.

D. Hasty action may be corrected by use of the motion to reconsider. This motion may be made only by a delegate who voted on the prevailing side. It must be made on the day the vote to be reconsidered was taken or the following day.

E. To stop debate and force the vote a delegate should obtain the floor and say "I move the previous question." This requires a delegate to second and a two-thirds affirmative vote.

F. A tie vote on a motion means the motion fails. A tie vote on an appeal sustains the decision of the chair.

G. If in doubt about any item of business under discussion a delegate may rise to a point of information or parliamentary inquiry. A delegate, without waiting for recognition, may rise and say "Chairperson, I rise for information" or "Chairperson, I rise to a parliamentary inquiry." The Chair will ask the delegate to state their point.

H. If in doubt about the results of a voice vote as announced by the Chair, a delegate may call for a demonstrated vote. Without waiting for recognition a delegate may rise immediately after the vote is announced and say "Chairperson, I call for a division" or simply call out "Division!" The Chair will initiate a show of voting cards, the results of which can be verified by everyone in attendance. If the results are still in doubt the Chair will initiate a ballot vote.

CONVENTION RULES

1. VOTING AND ACCREDITATION OF DELEGATES:

A. Each Optimist Club in good standing with Optimist International shall be entitled to one vote for each 10 members or major fraction thereof based on the membership recorded in the International Office on April 30 immediately prior to the Convention. Clubs organized after this date and prior to the first day of Convention shall be entitled to one vote for each 10 or major fraction of 10 charter members recorded in the International Office.

B. To be eligible to vote at the Convention delegates must have been accredited. To be accredited a delegate must have registered and paid the registration fee for this Convention, represent a Club in good standing (i.e., all obligations to Optimist International and District paid) and have registered at the Credentials Desk prior to the business sessions.

C. The number of accredited delegates and votes cast may equal but not exceed the voting strength. Delegates will be accredited by the Credentials Committee.

D. The Credentials Committee shall report at the first Convention session, at each session thereafter and at such other times as directed by the Chair. The Credentials Committee report will include only those Clubs with properly accredited delegates and may be amended as necessary between business sessions.

E. An individual holding membership in more than one Optimist Club may be a delegate for each Club provided that individual has complied with the required registration procedure and paid the required registration fee for each Club.

F. A delegate who is unable to obtain credentials within the normal hours of registration specified in the official convention program may obtain such credentials within a one-hour period preceding the beginning of each business session. The Credentials Desk will be open 1-5:30 p.m., Sunday, June 29, 7:45-8:45 a.m. & 1-5 p.m., Monday, June 30, 7:45-8:45 a.m., Tuesday, July 1, and 7:45-8:45 a.m. & 12:15-1:15 p.m., Wednesday, July 2. Each individual delegate who wishes to participate in the voting must register with the Credentials Desk and obtain appropriate credentials. Credentials will not be available for distribution during a business session. In the event of loss, the Credentials Committee may issue duplicate credentials during the times specified.

2. MOTIONS AND DEBATE:

A. Any convention registrant who is a member of an Optimist Club may speak on any question provided they address the Chair in the prescribed manner, are recognized by the Chair and state their name and Club affiliation.

B. Only accredited delegates may make or second motions.

C. No motions will be entertained by the Chair unless seconded and no motion shall be debated until the Chair has restated it. A motion will be placed in writing when so directed by the Chair.

D. Debate on a given motion will be limited to two minutes per speaker with a limit of 10 speakers, five for each side of an issue. No one may speak a second time on a given motion at the same sitting.

E. Debate may be limited, extended or ended by a two-thirds vote.

F. The decision of the Chair is final on all procedural matters. A decision of the Chair may be reversed only upon failure of a vote to sustain the ruling of the Chair.

CONVENTION RULES

3. VOTING:

A. The vote on any question before the Convention will be taken immediately following completion of debate, except that votes on questions related to the Resolutions/Governance Committees will be taken at the time specified in the official convention program.

B. Once voting commences it will not be interrupted except for a restatement of the questions by the Chair.

C. At the discretion of the Chair a question will be decided by a voice, hand, rising, roll call or ballot vote. To facilitate voting the Chair may require the use of handheld placards as a substitute for voice, hand or rising votes.

D. A ballot vote may be ordered by a majority vote of the delegates. For each ballot vote:

1) The Chair will announce the composition and chairperson of a committee of tellers to count the ballots and thereafter declare a recess for at least 15 minutes to permit Clubs to caucus for marking and depositing of ballots.

2) Delegates will caucus as Clubs, decide on the distribution of votes to which the Club is entitled and designate one delegate to mark the ballot reflecting the result of the caucus. A Club entitled to more than one vote may split its votes, except that only whole votes may be cast. Only one ballot per Club reflecting all votes to which the Club is entitled may be cast.

3) At least four ballot boxes with a teller assigned to each box will be available in the business session meeting room for depositing of ballots.

4) At the completion of balloting the committee of tellers will remove the ballot boxes to a designated place, count the votes and tabulate the results. The teller committee chairperson will report the results in writing to the Chair. All ballots will be destroyed immediately after the results of the balloting have been announced by the Chair.

5) A ballot vote once cast may not be changed.

4. RESOLUTIONS:

A. Only resolutions presented by the Governance/Resolutions Committee will be considered by the Convention. Resolutions declined by the Governance/ Resolutions Committee and not presented to the Convention are referred to the President-Designate and Executive Director for consideration.

B. Rules for debate on resolutions will be as directed by the Chair, generally following those prescribed for questions.

C. Resolutions will be adopted by majority vote. Resolutions approved by the convention delegates are referred to the International Board of Directors for consideration.

D. All actions taken on delegate approved resolutions will be communicated to the delegates at the following Convention.

CONVENTION RULES

5. CAMPAIGNING PROTOCOL:

A. Campaigning may take place between any sessions of the International Convention and in the designated candidate campaign area (if provided). No campaigning may take place during any scheduled session sponsored by Optimist International (general sessions, training sessions, breakouts, etc.).

B. Candidates who serve as Vice Presidents, Officers, Trainers, Board Members; on Optimist International Committees or who are speaking or appearing in front of delegates at any official Optimist function (including but not limited to general sessions, training sessions, workshops and meals) may do so but may not campaign in any way during such a presentation. They shall not wear campaign buttons, stickers or other campaign material and shall refrain from campaigning at such events.

C. All persons campaigning shall ensure that their campaign/support people are aware of all the requirements of Optimist International Policies and that they will be strictly adhered to before and during the Convention.

D. As stated by Optimist International Policy and signed by all candidates, literature or material soliciting support of or offering candidates for International or District Office is permissible providing such is in good taste and is of a size small enough to be placed at tables or in the hands of delegates. However, nothing may be fastened to walls or other locations of like nature. Activities regarding any candidacy for International or District Office shall be conducted in a responsible manner consistent with the importance and dignity of the office. Candidates shall limit or cause to be limited all expenditures made by themselves and/or on their behalf to a maximum of $5000 in cost in promoting their candidacy.

GENERAL INFORMATION

All convention activities are held at the St. Louis Union Station.

ATTIRE

Business attire is appropriate for all sessions and meal events. President’s Gala & Dance is black tie optional. Casual dress is the accepted fashion any other time.

CANADIAN CHILDREN’S OPTIMIST FOUNDATOIN

CCOF: You Can Bet on Us!

The Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation is proud to be part of the 2025 Optimist International Convention!

Visit us in the House of Optimism/EXPO and discover how your support helps transform young lives across Canada. Whether it’s education, health, or leadership development — together, we are creating brighter futures.

• CCOF is launching exciting new initiatives this year — come learn more and get involved!

• The CCOF Table in the Expo — bet you’ll be glad you paid us a visit!

FONDATION OPTIMISTE DES ENFANTS CANADIENS (FOEC)

FOEC : Vous pouvez parier sur nous !

La Fondation Optimiste des enfants Canadiens est fière de participer au Congrès d’Optimist International 2025 !

Passez nous voir à l’Expo pour découvrir comment votre appui change la vie des jeunes à travers le Canada. Éducation, santé, leadership — ensemble, bâtissons un avenir meilleur.

• De nouvelles initiatives seront lancées cette année — venez en apprendre davantage et voir comment vous pouvez y contribuer !

• Kiosque FOEC – Salle Expo — on parie que vous serez heureux de votre visite

CLUB PRESIDENTS-ELECT & LT GOVERNORS-ELECT BREAKFAST

Thursday.......................July 3, 7:30 – 9 a.m. (Advance purchased ticket required)

Breakfast will be served promptly at 8 a.m.

Hosted by President Designate Tom Kendo

Admission requires proper convention badge, ribbon, and purchased ticket.

DISTRICT HOSPITALITY

All Districts are invited to post information regarding their hospitality suite on a special bulletin board located in the Foyer A. Please do not post any notice on the walls or elevators of the venue. Optimist International will be responsible for any damage incurred by this action.

GENERAL INFORMATION

EMERGENCIES/FIRST AID

In the event of an emergency, the hotel alarms, both visual and audible, will sound. An announcement will follow stating that the alarm you are hearing is being investigated and to evacuate. This same announcement will repeat as the alarm is being investigated. If the alarm is resolved or false, the facility supervisors will make another announcement stating that the alarm has been “investigated and resolved:” and to return to your normal operations.

FOR ANY TYPE OF MEDICAL EMERGENCY: Call 911 PHARMACIES

Walgreens Community Pharmacy

3527 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103 (314) 771-2900

Genoa Healthcare

1430 Olive St., Ste. P, St. Louis, MO 63103 (314) 338-3744

CVS Pharmacy

315 N Ninth St., St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 436-7491

Walgreens Pharmacy

1530 Lafayette Ave., St. Louis, MO 6310, (314) 678-1039

HOSPITALS

SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital 1201 S Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63104 (314) 257-8000

SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital 1465 S Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63104 (314) 577-5600

John Cochran VA Medical Center

915 N Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63106 (314) 652-4100

St. Louis Children’s Hospital

One Children’s Place, St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 454-6000

Barnes Jewish Hospital

201 S 2nd St., St. Louis, MO 6310, (314) 231-3900

DENTISTS

Emergency Dentist 24/7 St. Louis

1500 Park Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 (866) 489-5217

Karen J Harris & Associates: Hull Brandon M DDS

2000 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 (314) 230-8364

Coleman Dental

1010 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 241-0885

Downtown Dental Associates

720 Olive St., Ste 1700, St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 241-4232

GENERAL INFORMATION

THE HOUSE OF OPTIMISM/EXPO & SERVICE SHOWCASE

Sunday, June 29 ................................ 1-7 p.m.

Monday, June 30 ...............................

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, July 1 ..................................

Wednesday, July 2

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Open to the public! Registration not required.

Featured in this area are exhibitors of fundraising products, endorsed organizations, displays of Optimist International Club Projects, Optimist Brand Partner Ansell’s, OI's Club Item Clearance Sales, AMBA Insurance, and a variety of other select vendors.  Be sure to check out the national charitable organizations’ displays for ways your Club can form partnerships in service!

Optimist International is excited to announce a special store this year, offering a limited selection of vintage and recent items made available following the conclusion of our contract with U.S. supplier Shumsky. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to own a piece of Optimist history!

All vendors will be allowed to sell their products and are limited to a small portion for samples.

FIRST TIMERS PROGRAM

Sunday, June 29 ................................ 3:30 – 5 p.m.

International President Jan Oord Graves and the International Convention Committee Chair, Phyllis Neff will personally welcome you to your FIRST International Convention while other Members of the 2024-2025 International Leadership team explain what you should expect to see and do during the four days of Entertainment, Business, Workshops, Discussions, Training, FUN, Fellowship, and Optimism.

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION KIOSK

Sunday, June 29 ................................ 1 – 7 p.m.

Monday, June 30

Tuesday, July 1

Wednesday, July 2

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

8 a.m. to 2 p.m

Come visit the Optimist International Foundation Kiosk and meet Members of the Board, Committee members and staff. While visiting the Kiosk, be sure to purchase 2025 Foundation merchandise including a special commemorative pin.

GENERAL INFORMATION

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATIONS

DONOR RECEPTION

Monday, June 30 ............................... 5:15 – 6:45 p.m.

The Donor Appreciation Reception honors the individuals who are William H. Harrison Society members and Presidents Club members. OIF President Ben DeRemer will give an update on the status of the Foundation. President-Elect Fatima Plater will unveil the theme for 2025-2026 and give an overview of the plans for that year.   This reception is invitation only.

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATIONS

WM. H HARRISON RECEPTION

Tuesday, July 1 .................................. 5 – 6:30 p.m.

The William H. Harrison Member Reception honors both OIF and CCOF individuals who are William H. Harrison Society members and their guests. OIF President Ben DeRemer and CCOF Executive Director André Michelet-Figueroa will share all the outstanding achievements of the foundations for the past year.  This reception is invitation only.

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION PAST PRESIDENTS BREAKFAST RECEPTION

Wednesday, July 2 ............................. 7:30 – 9 a.m.

The Optimist International Foundation Past Presidents will gather to celebrate the success of the Foundation. A chance to celebrate and remember the great achievements of the Foundation and its leaders. This breakfast is invitation only.

HERITAGE OF OPTIMISM BRUNCH

Monday, June 30 ............................... 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ..................................... (Advanced purchased ticket required)

Breakfast will be served promptly at 10 a.m.

Together we honor our Past International Presidents and their Very Important Partners

PHOTOGRAPHER

Attention all attendees and guests of the convention!

We would like to inform you that there is a professional photographer present. Throughout the convention, the photographer will be taking photos of various activities, speakers, and attendees. By participating in the event, you may be photographed, and your image may be used in future convention promotions.

Please be aware that your attendance at the event implies your consent for us to use any photos of you that may be taken. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

If you have any concerns or objections regarding the use of your image, please inform the photographer or a member of the event staff.

Thank you for your cooperation and we hope you have a wonderful time at the convention!

GENERAL INFORMATION

PRESIDENT’S GALA & DANCE

Wednesday, July 2

Reception ............................... 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Gala ........................................ 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Dinner will be served promptly at 7:30 p.m.

Dance 9:30 – 11:30 p.m.

Attend an elegant dinner with your International President Jan Oord Graves and First Gentleman, Ron Graves, and all your Optimist Friends!  Dress in your very best and celebrate while enjoying the festivities.  Enjoy your meal and get ready to be entertained by That 80’s Band!

SERVICE PROJECTS

Monarch Jewelry

Donate your unused or broken jewelry to Monarch Jewlery and help fight sex trafficking and child exploitation. Monarch is hosting a workshop and accepting donations. All donated items are creatively repurposed, with net profits supporting Crisis Aid International’s safe home for survivors and their Child Advocacy Program (CAP) in police stations. Every piece makes a difference. Join Monarch’s mission to raise awareness and funds, because doing nothing is not an option. Your old jewelry can spark new hope!

Build-a-Bear

Optimist International has partnered with Ronald McDonald House Charities as the beneficiary of this year's service project. Pre-order your preferred color of furry friend (brown or cream) for $30.

SMOKING POLICY

Smoking is not permitted at any of the Optimist functions. We appreciate your cooperation.

WELCOME FIRST TIME ATTENDEES

Bill G Adams

Paula Adams

Ruth Ann Adams

Marian Bozak

Dorothy Burk

Mark Cappel

Barry Clayton

Joseph Cocco

Shirley Coile

Elena Cook

Barbara Cordts

Chelsea Corkins

Paras Mani Dahal

Denise Davis

Hylton Dennis

Colleen Duenas

Cathy Elliott

David Goff

Jocelynn Goff

Laura Guy

Debbie Hogenmiller

Becky Holm

Donna Holt

John Huntington, Jr

Stacy Jackson

Sue Joggerst

Lukas Jones-Tate

Marianna Kacyra

Kelly Karl

Rebecca Lakey

Charles Leimkuehler

Robyn Leimkuehler

Marcia Lopez

Andrew Lopez III

Brian Maday

Glenda Malone

Michelle Malone

Rob Manthey

Shelley Manthey

Debbie McCoy

Steven McCoy

Arlene McDonald

Carolyn McKinney

Sherry Minnick

Gertrude O'Leary

Kristi Cricket Palmer

Holly Parish

John Parish

Owen Parish

Andrew Potter

Robert Puckett

Vanessa Rueth

Aubrey Schaffer

Heather Schaffer

Leighton Schaffer

Sheldon Schaffer

Barbara Schmidt

Mary Kay Scott

James Smith

Connie Sohnleitner

Karen Stephenson

Janice Stewart

Norma Stewart

Ritchie Stewart

Gregory Tate

Marilyn Tate

Kiran Tiwari Mr

Martin Tlachac

Ann Wagganer

Monica Wallace

Sandra Weir

Kirsten Wellnitz

Danielle Wilson

Joan Wilson Roberts

John Zieser

TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & EXPERIENCES

Optimist International 107th Annual Convention

Summer in St. Louis means al fresco arts, live sports, music festivals and outdoor adventures – plus, a lot of beer, barbecue and ice cream. The excitement in the city is palpable, and free attractions and events make it easy to stick to a budget while enjoying everything that St. Louis has to offer. Whatever you want to experience while you are in town, St. Louis can deliver.

Noteworthy Sites:

Union Station

The Gateway Arch National Park-museum

The Old Courthouse

Museum of Illusions

City Museum

The St. Louis Zoo

Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate

Missouri Botanical Garden

St. Louis Art Museum

Missouri Historical Society

St. Louis Science Center & McDonnell Planetarium

Busch Stadium

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis

Grant’s Farm

The Magic House

The Fabulous Fox

Cahokia Mounds

The Hill St. Louis Food Tour

Historic homes of importance:

Chatillon-De Menil Mansion

Magic Chef Oven Mansion

The Campbell House

Anheuser-Busch Brewery

2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President, Jan Oord Graves

Optimist Clubs of San Antonio, TX and Kalamazoo Breakfast, MI

Immediate Past President, Tracy Huxley

Optimist Clubs of Ausable-Port Franks, ON & Regina-Downtowners, SK, & St. Ann’s Bay, JA

President Designate, Tom Kendo

Optimist Clubs of Kettering-Dor-Wood, OH and Greenemont Voices, OH

Junior Optimist President, Carter Sinclair

Executive Director, Cheryl Brenn

Optimist Club of St. Louis, MO

2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Optimist Clubs of Jefferson County and Clayton, MO

Optimist Clubs of Regina-Downtowners, SK, St. Croix Valley-Stillwater, MN

Optimist Clubs of St Paul, MN & Roseville Area, MN

Optimist Clubs of Sunset Liguanea, JA & Progressive Lights-Montego Bay, JA

Optimist Clubs of Moline-Breakfast, IL & Bettendorf, IA

Michael Boles

Sandi Schmidt

Rod McKendrick

Paula Reyling

Optimist Club of Jasper, IN

Terry Gorman

Patrick Prendergast

2024-25 INTERNATIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

Cheryl Bolton

Northeast & Great Lakes Region

Optimist Clubs of Dojo-Strathroy & Kerwood-Adelaide-Metcalfe, ON

Tolanda Adams

Southeast Region Optimist Clubs of Birmingham-West & Montgomery-Central, AL

Sandra Doyle

Middle America Region

Optimist Club of West Jay, IN

Tony Carpenter

Southwest Region

Optimist Club of Wheat Ridge, CO

Tom Shearer

Mid-Atlantic Region

Optimist Clubs of Hanover & Colonial Heights Inc., VA

Jodi Arriola

Great Plains Region

Optimist Clubs of Hallie, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and Bloomer Area, WI

Jim Oliver

West Coast Region

Optimist Club of Canyon Country, CA

2024-2025 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION PLANNING TEAM

2024-25 Convention Committee

Phyllis Neff, International Convention Committee Chair

Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Joanne Ganske, Optimist Clubs of Cross Plains, Mazomanie-Wisconsin Heights, and Baraboo, Wisconsin

Michele Stokes, Optimist Club of Ancaster Township, Ontario

Attractions Listing

Karen Huskey, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri, Baskets for Silent Auction

Coordinator Marge Hopkins, Optimist Club of Burlington-West, Iowa

Centerpiece Designers

Emily Collins, Optimist Clubs of Jackson-Noon and Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Jean Naeger, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Barb Schmidt, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Deb Swanigan, Optimist Club of Downtown-Columbia, Missouri

Beth Watts, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Centerpiece Builders from the Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Ruthann Adams

Marian Bozak

Alicia Cummiskey

Susan DuClue

Laura Elbl

Cathy Elliott

Mary Hatfield

Katie Huck

Kathy Jensen

Dorothea Kehm

Carroll Metzger

Patty Meyer

Pat Parsons

Mary Kay Scott

Kathy Todd

Judy Williams

On-site Volunteers

2024-2025 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION PLANNING TEAM

Greeters, Silent Auction assistants, and Monarch Jewelry Assistants

Ruth Ann Adams, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Michael Boles, Optimist Club of Jefferson County, Missouri

Sue Boyer, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Marian Bozak, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Liz Christman, Optimist Club of Jefferson County, Missouri

Shirley Coile, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Emily Collins, Optimist Clubs of Jackson-Noon and Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Mary Dewey, Optimist Club of Downtown Columbia, Missouri

Cathy Elliott, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Kristin Ham, Optimist Club of Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Caryl Harnes, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Joe Hatfield, Optimist Club of Jefferson County, Missouri

Mary Hatfield, Optimist Clubs of Festus-Crystal City (TCA) and Jefferson County, Missouri

Debra Hoffmann, Optimist Club of Jackson-Noon, Missouri

Paul Hoffmann, Optimist Club of Jackson, Missouri

Debbie Hogenmiller, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Sue Joggerst, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Carolyn McKinney, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Jennifer McQuay, Optimist Club of Jackson-Noon, Missouri

Carroll Metzger, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Jean Naeger, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Gertrude O'Leary, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Barbara Schmidt, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Mary Kay Scott, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Kathy Todd, Optimist Club of Festus-Crystal City (TCA), Missouri

Amanda Walter, Optimist Club of Cape Girardeau, Missouri

2024-2025 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION PLANNING TEAM

Live Auction

Auctioneer Shane Neuman, Optimist Club of Uptown-Great Falls, Montana

Assistant Auctioneer Jim Boyd, Optimist Club of Urbandale, Iowa

Spotter Chris Jernigan, Optimist Club of Morganton, North Carolina

Muscle Crew

Eric Brockus, Optimist Club of Osceola, Missouri

Sergeants-At-Arms

Dave Bolton, Optimist Club of Kerwood-Adelaide-Metcalfe, Ontario

Lola Cumbo, Optimist Clubs of Willow Grove-East Montco, Pennsylvania and Hope-Blythewood, South Carolina

Larry Harper, Optimist Clubs of Spencerville and Seaway, ON

Cathy Hicks, Capitol Optimist Club of Sacramento

Tim Hicks, Capitol Optimist Club of Sacramento and Optimist Club of Sacramento-BFT, CA

Steve McDanal, Optimist Club of Mechanicsville, Maryland

Andrew Mestdagh, Optimist Club of Kerwood-Adelaide-Metcalfe, Ontario

Ron Whitaker, Optimist Club of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

Candidate Qualifications Committee

Rebecca Butler-Mona, Chair

Optimist Club of Des Moines-Western-Noon, IA

Adrian Elcock, Optimist Clubs of Barbados Bridgetown, BA and Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Patsy Garner, Optimist Clubs of Arlington Community Athletics, and Fort Worth-BFT East, TX

Marc Katz, Optimist Club of Royal Oak, MI

William Meyers, Optimist Club of Childhood Cancer, SC

Mark Weinsoff, Optimist Club of Northside Santa Barbara, CA

Credentials Committee

Karen Monville, Chair

Optimist Clubs of Bay City Noon, Kalamazoo-BFT, and Central Macomb, MI

Dana Monville, Optimist Club of Bay City Noon, MI

Nova Sipe, Optimist Club of Marana-Foothills, AZ

Deb Merrit, Optimist Club of Athens, AL

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Jacksonville, Florida

June 28-July 1, 2026

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS

2026 Jacksonville, FL (Tom Kendo)

2025 St. Louis, MO (Jan Oord Graves)

2024 Niagara Falls, Ontario CN (Tracy Huxley)

2023 Arlington, VA (Robert McFadyen)

2022 Reno, NV (Patsy Garner)

2021 Atlanta, GA (Mark Weinsoff)

2020 Virtual, (Adrian Elcock)

2019 Louisville, KY (Rebecca Butler-Mona)

2018 Ottawa, ON (Nick Prillaman)

2017 Albuquerque, NM (Jim Kondrasuk)

2016 Québec City, Québec, CN (Dave Bruns)

2015 New Orleans, LA (Ken Garner)

2014 Las Vegas, NV (Ron G Huxley)

2013 Cincinnati, OH (Jean-Claude St-Onge)

2012 Milwaukee, WI (John “Jack” Creswell)

2011 Baltimore, MD (Danny Rodgers)

2010 Denver, CO (Mark Shriver IV)

2009 Kissimmee, FL (Don Sievers)

2008 Grapevine, TX (Theodore Golding)

2007 Montreal, QC (Ronnie Dunn)

2006 Nashville, TN (Michel Listenberger, O.D.)

2005 New Orleans, LA (Yves Berthiaume)

2004 St. Louis, MO (Dwaine Sievers)

2003 Kansas City, MO (William H. Teague)

2002 Indianapolis, IN (Jerry Henderson)

2001 Orlando, FL (Bob Garner)

2000 Reno, NV (Andre Dubois)

1999 Toronto, ON (James H. Hubbard)

1998 Atlanta, GA J. (Wayne Smith)

1997 Detroit, MI (Clifton I. Katz)

1996 Las Vegas, NV (J. C. Boone)

1995 San Antonio, TX (Jean Mercier)

1994 Montreal, QC (Charles R. Wiles)

1993 Louisville, KY (John R. Reel)

1992 Anaheim, CA (Donald B. Mills, Ed.D)

1991 Nashville, TN (Tate Thigpen, MD)

1990 Seattle, WA (Kenneth E. Monschein)

1989 Indianapolis, IN (Fernand Rondeau)

1988 Reno, NV (Kenneth G. Loach)

1987 Montreal, QC (Lester R. Craft)

1986 Charlotte, NC (James E. Attarian)

1985 Albuquerque, NM (Ardyn J. Long)

1984 Philadelphia, PA (Donald Hand)

1983 New Orleans, LA (Donald E. Strub)

1982 St. Louis, MO (Seymour Silverman)

1981 Orlando, FL (Lionel Grenier)

1980 Toronto, ON (James E. Creed, DVM)

1979 Kansas City, MO (Dudley D. Williams)

1978 San Diego, CA (Don L. Arnwine)

1977 Houston, TX (Richard S. McAnany)

1976 Washington, DC (Patrick L. Grady)

1975 San Francisco, CA (Ralph Glasscock)

1974 Atlanta, GA (Ronald E. Thompson)

1973 San Antonio, TX S. (Phil McCardwell)

1972 Montreal, QC (Norman L. Shipley)

1971 Minneapolis, MN (Charles C. Campbell)

1970 Los Angeles, CA (Monroe Marlowe)

1969 Bal Harbour, FL (Gene H. Sternberg, Sr.)

1968 Louisville, KY (William R. Newhouse)

1967 Portland, OR (Robert H. Leonard)

OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS

1966 Baltimore, MD (John R. Olvey)

1965 New Orleans, LA (Carl L. Bowen, DDS)

1964 Denver, CO (George Cobley, MD)

1963 Toronto, ON (John M. Grimland, Jr.)

1962 St. Louis, MO (Raymond R. Rembolt, MD)

1961 Las Vegas, NV (John W. Whatley)

1960 Grand Rapids, MI (Nicholas C. Mueller)

1959 Miami Beach, FL (J. Harold Wilkins)

1958 Dallas, TX (Harold W. Brand)

1957 Philadelphia, PA (C. Lease Bussard)

1956 Los Angeles, CA (Donald J. Twiss, MD)

1955 Montreal, QC (Maurice Perkins)

1954 Houston, TX (Walter A. Reiling, MD)

1953 Washington, DC (J. Warren Day)

1952 Louisville, KY (Roly P. Nall)

1951 Detroit, MI (George O. Browne)

1950 Atlantic City, NJ (Franklin A. Steinko)

1949 San Francisco, CA (C. Milton Morris)

1948 San Antonio, TX (Lucien L. Renuart)

1947 Denver, CO (William H. Pierce)

1946 Miami Beach, FL (Carl C. Donaugh)

1945 Minneapolis, MN (Dr. Joseph W. Seay)

1944 St. Louis, MO (Theodore F. Peirce)

1943 Chicago, IL R. (Carter Tucker)

1942 Chicago, IL (Eldon S. Dummit)

1941 Minneapolis, MN (John N. Free)

1940 Kansas City, MO (Thomas F. O’Keefe)

1939 Richmond, VA (F. Fern Petty, DDS)

1938 Los Angeles, CA (William J. Tamblyn)

1937 Cincinnati, OH (Earl G. Stanza)

1936 Fort Worth, TX (Walter J. Pray)

1935 St. Louis, MO (Henry Schaffert)

1934 Toronto, ON (V. Ernest Field)

1933 Washington, DC (David W. Onan)

1932 San Francisco, CA (Holmes A. Sperb)

1931 Detroit, MI (Robert J. Sutherland)

1930 Erie, PA (Nicholas F. Nolan)

1929 Tulsa, OK (Harlington Wood)

1928 Asheville, NC (C. Edd Hall)

1927 Denver, CO (Oscar A. Smith)

1926 Lexington, KY (Leo F. Nohl)

1925 Houston, TX (Sherman Rogers)

1924 Milwaukee, WI (James Chilton)

1923 Chattanooga, TN (Jack Martin)

1922 Kansas City, MO (Cyrus C. Wilmore)

1921 Springfield, IL (William H. Harrison)

1920 St. Louis, MO (William H. Harrison)

1919 Louisville, KY

Get ready for our Super Sale! This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on great Optimist gear for yourself and your Club. We have a fantastic selection of apparel, pins, and accessories, all at unbeatable prices.

These classic items are perfect for recognizing members, promoting your Club, or simply showing off your Optimist pride. Hurry in for the best selection — these deals are only available while supplies last!

Visit us in the Ballroom Foyer on the First Floor

Sunday, 1 - 5:30 p.m., Monday, 9-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, 9-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m., Wednesday, 9-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

Optimist Jacket

Optimist Shirt

Oratorical Medallion

Secretary Pin

Optimist Hat

JOI Pin

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Optimist International and the International Convention Committee gratefully acknowledge the support from Optimist International Foundation, sponsors, Clubs, and individuals for their contributions to the 2025 Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.