February 4th 2025 the Rotary Club of Kittery was honored to have Michael McGovern, the Rotary International Polio Plus Chair as guest Speaker. Michael McGovern has , for over ten years, led Rotary Internationals efforts to eradicate polio around the world.
Michael McGovern joined the South Portland -Cape Elizabeth Rotary Club in 1986, Past District Governor of District 7780, a Past Rotary International Director, and past Rotary International Vice-President. He has been a Rotary Foundation Trustee, and Rotary Foundation Vice-Chair, and he is the global chair of the Rotary leadership Institute. Michael is a very familiar face around he District, despite his commitments, as he supports and shares what Rotary is doing around the globe.
Michael reported on the successes and challenges of the battle to eradicate polio and the part played by Rotary International. The effort has reduced the numbers to very few , but constant political changes are routinely preventing complete control. Recent events are now also a challenge as some of he partner organizations are being limited and disrupted by policy changes. It is typical of the man's dedication, that Michael drove down to Kittery to be with us in person and then immediately had to return to Cape Elizabeth to participate in an national call on Polio support an hour later.
The Rotary Club of Kittery is honored and grateful for Michael for visiting with us, the Club also presented Michael with a $738.00 donation to Polio Plus.