The Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) celebrated a successful Conclave 2025, held August 15–17 at the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel in Athens. The weekend featured 36 international students (with two on the way to Georgia) representing 22 countries and 23 colleges and universities across Georgia, each beginning a year of cultural exchange, leadership development, and Rotary’s philosophy of Service Above Self.
Eighty-five Rotary Clubs across Georgia are investing in this mission, welcoming scholars into their communities and supporting GRSP’s vision of “promoting peace through understanding.”
Throughout the weekend, scholars introduced themselves, their host families, and GRSP Trustees, while participating in sessions on expectations and legal responsibilities. They proudly represented their home countries in the Parade of Nations and showcased their talents during the Cabaret through songs, dances, and skits—culminating with the GRSP Peace Anthem. GRSP Chair Emeritus /GRSP Foundation Past President Jim Drake along with his wife Lynn directed the Cabaret.
District 6910 Governor Jessica Fleetwood set the tone for Conclave 2025 by introducing the fundamentals of Rotary International during the opening session, followed by Vice Chair James McCoy’s overview of the student handbook. GRSP Program Manager Laura Shadrick offered tips on proactive communication, while Senior Judge Penny Freesemann and Eric Spears, Executive Director of the Center for Global Engagement at Columbus State University, provided guidance on Georgia and U.S. laws and visa compliance.
Chair Ian Bond introduced the keynote speaker, GRSP alumna Anna Stenport (Class of 1993–94, Sweden), now Dean of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Georgia. Stenport encouraged scholars and Rotarians to pursue their passions and challenged them to channel their intellect into meaningful contributions, rather than take the easy path of artificial intelligence.
The weekend concluded with a memorable backstage tour of Sanford Stadium, including a walk across Dooley Field and a pep talk in the locker room.
GRSP Foundation fundraising was another highlight of the event, with $6,500 raised through an auction and $30,000 pledged in support of the program. District 6920 Governor and GRSP Foundation President Terry Adkins, along with DG 6900’s Steve Ivory and DG 6910’s Jessica Fleetwood, led these efforts.
The event was hosted by Rotary District 6910’s Athens, Classic City of Athens, and Oconee County clubs under the leadership of Conclave Chair Clark Brown.
Next, scholars will travel to Columbus September 19-21 for the Tony Wright Memorial GRSP Weekend, hosted by area clubs.
Looking ahead, Rotarians, alumni, and friends are encouraged to mark their calendars for Conclave 2026 in Savannah, Ga., August 21–23, 2026.
The Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) is a unique scholarship program that brings outstanding international students to study in Georgia colleges and universities, fostering peace, understanding, and lifelong friendships across cultures. Sponsored by Rotary Clubs across the state, GRSP has been building global connections for over 75 years by offering students the opportunity to experience Southern hospitality while receiving a world-class education. To learn more about the program, its history, and how you or your club can get involved, visit www.grsp.org.
