Ellis-Simpson Installed as Rotary President
Mitsy J. Ellis-Simpson was installed as president of the Rotary Club of Tortola at a June 6 ceremony that honoured community leaders and set priorities for 2026–2027. The club recognised three Community Paul Harris Fellows and unveiled a board focused on service, youth development and health initiatives across the Virgin Islands.
Ellis-Simpson was officially installed as president of the Rotary Club of Tortola at a ceremony held at Prime Restaurant on Saturday, June 6, 2026. The event gathered Rotarians, government officials, business leaders, sponsors, family and friends to celebrate Rotary’s ongoing commitment to community service and to recognise individuals whose work has positively impacted lives across the Virgin Islands.
Assistant Governor Rosemarie Flax performed the installation, with incoming Assistant Governor Shan Mohamed assisting in the pinning of leadership lapels. Ellis-Simpson, a Paul Harris Fellow +1, accepted the role under the club theme “Together, We Inspire Hope and Action,” which aligns with Rotary International’s 2026–2027 global theme, “Create Lasting Impact.” She told attendees, “Rotary exists to make a difference.
We exist to identify needs, bring people together and create lasting solutions.” President Ellis-Simpson outlined five priorities for her year of leadership: strengthening community service initiatives, supporting youth development, expanding partnerships and collaboration, enhancing leadership and member engagement, and telling Rotary’s story more effectively.
She highlighted healthcare and health promotion as a personal focus, saying improved health outcomes and greater access to wellness opportunities are essential to stronger communities in the BVI. A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of Community Paul Harris Fellow recognitions to three distinguished Virgin Islands residents.
Penn was honoured for leadership in women’s health advocacy, cervical cancer awareness, public health education and youth empowerment. Andy Bradley was recognised for decades of service to the Virgin Gorda community, contributions to the marine industry and dedication to helping others.
Lesmore Smith received the award for a lifetime of service in public safety, community development and philanthropy. The Community Paul Harris Fellow is one of Rotary’s highest honours and celebrates sustained community impact. Scatliffe as Rotarian of the Year for her dedication to youth development and service during the 2025–2026 year, and expressed appreciation to Immediate Past President Violet Thomas Gaul for her leadership.
The 2026–2027 Board of Directors was installed as follows: President - Mitsy J. Ellis-Simpson Immediate Past President - Violet Thomas Gaul President-Elect - Argel A. Horton Vice President - Valerie Georges Secretary - Ann Allen Encontre Treasurer - Mara Samaniego Sergeant-at-Arms - Nicoleta Bongarth Public Image Director - Edson Boyea Club Administration Director - Joshua Hamlet Foundation Director - Lynette L.
Harrigan-Geluk Youth Service Director - Tiffany Scatliffe Membership Director - Dr Sharlon Lewis-Forbes Community Service Director - Brian Liverpool Learning Facilitator Director - Abigail O’Neal The installation underscores the Rotary Club of Tortola’s role as a civic partner in the BVI, continuing projects and collaborations that support health, youth, safety and economic resilience across the Territory.
According to coverage by Virgin Islands News Online, the club hopes the coming year will strengthen ties with government, businesses and community groups to deliver measurable benefits to residents.
Primary source: VINO