August 1, 2026
A Message from Your NJ Rotary District Governor, William J. "Bill" Mercantini
Dear Fellow Rotarians of NJ Rotary,
As we begin this exciting new chapter together, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your dedication, commitment, and belief in Rotary. The formation of NJ Rotary represents a historic opportunity, and I am pleased to report that we are moving forward smoothly with new and exciting initiatives that will strengthen our District and enhance the Rotary experience for every member.
Your Executive Leadership Council and I are working diligently to build an organization founded on transparency, communication, collaboration, and service. We recognize that bringing together 108 clubs is no small undertaking, but every day we are making meaningful progress. One of our highest priorities is improving communication throughout the District so that every Rotarian feels informed, connected, and valued. We are committed to earning the trust and confidence of every member while creating an environment where new ideas are welcomed and innovation is encouraged.
As District Governor, I have established several goals that I believe will define our future and leave a lasting legacy for NJ Rotary.
Foundation Giving – Building a Legendary Legacy
My number one goal is to make our District's commitment to The Rotary Foundation truly legendary. I am asking every Rotarian to consider making a simple pledge of $5 per month—or just $60 per year—to The Rotary Foundation.
Imagine the impact if every Rotarian in NJ Rotary participated. Together, we would dramatically strengthen our Foundation, increase the resources available for humanitarian work, and position our District among Rotary's leaders in Foundation giving.
Just as importantly, this commitment will increase the amount of District Designated Funds available in future years, allowing our clubs to receive larger District Grants after our three-year Foundation cycle. More grant dollars mean more community projects, greater visibility, stronger public image, and ultimately increased membership as people see Rotary making an even bigger difference throughout New Jersey.
A Signature NJ Rotary District Project
Another goal I have for our District is to create a signature NJ Rotary District Grant project that every one of our 108 clubs can participate in and proudly call their own. I envision a project that addresses an important need right here in the Garden State—one where every club has a voice in its development and every member has an opportunity to contribute.
Together, we can create something that becomes a lasting tradition and a model for other Rotary districts around the world.
Leadership Through Service
NJ Rotary will only become stronger when more members step forward to serve. If you have a passion, an idea, a professional skill, or simply a desire to make a difference, I encourage you to get involved with District leadership.
Don't be afraid to raise your hand.
Bring your ideas. Bring your talents. Bring your enthusiasm. Let us know what excites you and where you believe you can make a difference. You may discover leadership abilities and talents you never knew you possessed, and in the process, you may inspire others to do the same.
Rotary has always been about ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things through service, fellowship, and leadership. Every one of us has something valuable to contribute.
As we move forward together, I ask each of you to embrace this new beginning with optimism and pride. Together we will build a District known for innovation, outstanding communication, meaningful service, exceptional Foundation support, and engaged leadership.
Most importantly, never forget that Service Above Self is more than our motto—it is a way of life. Every act of kindness, every volunteer hour, every dollar given, and every project completed changes lives. Each one of you is an essential part of NJ Rotary's future, and our success depends upon your passion, your commitment, and your willingness to serve.
Thank you for all that you do for Rotary, your clubs, your communities, and one another. I look forward to serving alongside you as together we build something truly special.
Yours in Rotary,
William J. "Bill" Mercantini
District Governor 2026–2027
