OUR HISTORY
Big West Rotaract started off in 2009 as an unofficial collaboration between Rotaractors across the west coast, spearheaded by Rotaractors Joanna Kwong and Mitty Chang from District 5160. The collaboration was focused around a regional conference for Rotaractors by Rotaractors, with the goal of leadership development and friendship without borders. That first conference became known as the Big West Rotaract Conference and took place at the University of California, Berkeley from October 15-17, 2010 with the theme of “Bridging Connections.”
The primary mission of Big West Rotaract, or “BWR” for short, is to provide leadership training and education to Rotaractors on the west coast of North America through leadership training Institutes, conferences, information exchange, and digital resources.
In 2015, Big West Rotaract launched its flagship Rotaract Institute in San Jose. The BWR Institute is where the west coast Rotaract President Elect Training Session (PETS), Rotaract Governor Elect Training Session (GETS), and Rotaract Board Elect Training Session (BETS) take place. This happens annually on the third weekend of July.
Ever fall, BWR's conferences serve as an annual gathering point for Rotaractors on the west coast to receive leadership training and foster growing connections.
In 2019, BWR incorporated as Big West Rotaract Foundation, and was recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit.
Big West Rotaract serves 25 member districts across 3 Rotary zones in western North America.
OUR ORGANIZATION
Big West Rotaract’s leadership team includes the Big West Rotaract Board of Trustees, the Big West Rotaract Board of Directors, and the Big West Rotaract Administrative Team. This is a 100% volunteer driven organization with no paid staff. We are incredibly thankful and lucky to these talented individuals who have stepped up to power Big West Rotaract and all of its services. Contact [email protected] to get involved.
MEET THE TEAM
Our leadership team is the driving force behind Big West Rotaract and its events.
The Big West Rotaract leadership team is made up of the General Secretary, Directors, Staff, and Advisory Council. We also have amazing volunteers who help with a wide range of Big West Rotaract committees, events, and projects. If you’re interested in getting involved, send a message to [email protected].
Joey Vaesen
General Secretary
2021-2023
Alia Ali
Director
2018-2021
Luna Fagan
Director
2019-2021
Dianne Kunkee
Director
2021-2023
Taylor Lee
Director
2018-2021
Sydney Schilling
Director
2020
Cecily Swason
Director
2021-2023
Stephanie Velasco
Director
2021-2023
Phoenix MacLaren
Chief of Staff
Janel Breen
Chair, Advisory Council
Devon Ahud
Advisor
Mitty Chang
Advisor
Belgica Crespo
Advisor
Jermaine Ee
Advisor
Yvonne Kwan
Advisor
Jane Kwon
Advisor
Joanne Lam
Advisor
Brittney Olaes
Advisor
GET INVOLVED
Big West Rotaract’s leadership team includes the Big West Rotaract Board of Trustees, the Big West Rotaract Board of Directors, and the Big West Rotaract Administrative Team. This is a 100% volunteer driven organization with no paid staff. We are incredibly thankful and lucky to these talented individuals who have stepped up to power Big West Rotaract and all of its services.
Want to help with a Big West Rotaract event or opportunity? Send a note to [email protected] to get involved.