Adoptive Grandfather of Overseas Student in US for College / Public Image

One of Rotary’s founding themes is connecting people. After all, that’s what Paul Harris had in mind 120 years ago when he
invited people with diverse backgrounds to gather so they could exchange ideas and form meaningful life-long friendships. As
Rotary grew during the last century it helped bring a divided country together to achieve greatness. But, in recent years our
country has become divided. Our topic today is how we can come together again. The following video gives background.

Randy Bretz believes in the power of connecting people. He’s been a member of Rotary 14 in Lincoln for nearly 20 years,
served as President of the club a few years back and has been active in District 5650 in recent years. Randy’s career has
involved broadcasting, telecommunications, higher education, church leadership and public corporation leadership. He finished
his formal education in 1982 with a Ph.D. in higher education leadership but has never stopped learning. He was the original
licensee of TEDxLincoln, and founding partner of the Nebraska Storytelling Festival. He continues to teach at Nebraska
Wesleyan, serves on the University of Nebraska President’s Advisory Council and is a member of the board of Junior
Achievement of Lincoln.

Today’s program is a call to action. Be prepared to be challenged to reach out and connect with people around you, to build bridges
of social capital for the better good and take Rotary back to its roots of service.