On behalf of The Rotary Foundation Trustees, District 6630 Governor Bob Oborn and District 6630 Foundation Chair, PDG David Jones, presented PDG W. Stewart “Stew” Buchanan the Citation for Meritorious Service at the Rotary Club of Akron meeting on May 12, 2026.
Stew, along with his wife Cheryl (Cherie), have continually provided enthusiastic service to support the Rotary Foundation.
Through his ongoing efforts, Stew has ensured the continued success of vital Rotary programs.
Here is the transcript from the presentation:
Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service
W. Stewart “Stew” Buchanan, The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service recognizes individual Rotarians and Rotaractors who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the Foundation—through leadership, stewardship, and a sustained commitment to advancing Rotary’s mission. Your service exemplifies all of these qualities and more.
For countless years, you have been a steadfast champion of The Rotary Foundation and its work. Your leadership in PolioPlus fundraising has inspired clubs, energized volunteers, and strengthened our collective resolve to finish the job of eradicating polio. Your efforts have not only raised critical dollars but have also elevated awareness across our district and beyond.
Your vision and determination were especially evident in the End Polio events with the Cleveland Indians / Guardians, where your coordination and advocacy brought Rotary’s message to thousands. Through your work, families, community partners, and baseball fans alike were reminded of Rotary’s unwavering commitment to a polio‑free world.
The Foundation’s programs are the means by which Rotarians transform generosity into sustainable, life‑changing projects. Each year, districts may nominate one member whose commitment, enthusiasm, and passion for these ideals stand out in extraordinary ways. This year, the review committee’s choice was clear.
It is therefore with great pleasure that, on behalf of The Rotary Foundation Trustees, I bestow this honor upon you today.
Stew, we deeply value and appreciate your enthusiastic service to the Foundation. Your leadership strengthens the impact of Rotary’s most vital programs and ensures their continued success. Thank you for all that you do to advance our mission of creating lasting change.
Congratulations on receiving this prestigious and well‑deserved recognition.
About the Citation for Meritorious Service
Criteria
The Citation for Meritorious Service recognizes individual Rotarians who have demonstrated outstanding active service to The Rotary Foundation for more than one year. Examples of eligible service include, but not limited to:
• Service on Foundation committees at the club, district, or international level
• Participation in Foundation grants or programs
• Support of Ambassadorial Scholars, Rotary Peace Fellows, Group Study Exchange teams, or vocational training teams Financial contributions to the Foundation, however notable, are not relevant considerations for this award.
Eligibility
An individual may receive this award only once. Any active Rotarian in good standing may be nominated, with the exception of current and incoming district governors, current and incoming RI directors, and current Foundation trustees.
Selection procedure
Nominations must be endorsed by the current district governor. Each district may have only one recipient per year.
