June 2026 D5495 Rotary Rookie of the Month
Melanie Yager| Rotary Club of Surprise-Sun City West

Melanie Yager is one of our Club's most enthusiastic members. She is always ready to help and lead where necessary. 

She shows initiative with her leadership with our Club's April 2026 Taste of Surprise & Arts Festival Fundraising Projects. Immediately, at one of the early event planning meetings, she volunteered to look for more sponsors and then she volunteered to be responsible for the event's Silent Auction items. She has always demonstrated "Service Above Self" on the many daily activities that she participates. 


Melanie has belonged to Rotary since February 24, 2026. She was inspired by her father who was very involved in their community. She is looking for friendships, connections, and a sense of community. 

Melanie is a transplant from Indiana and she is looking to make new friends and give back to the community. Her specials skills include Non-profit accounting experience, helping with technology, google sheets, Excel, etc. This experience has been very helpful with her fresh ideas and new energy that the Club and planning committee always needs. 

May 2026 D5495 Rotary Rookie of the Month
Jennifer Garrett | Rotary Club of Verde Valley

Jennifer Garrett of the Rotary Club of Verde Valley has been selected the District 5495 Rotary Rookie of the Month for May.

Jennifer joined the club in March 2025 and is currently the club's Youth Services/RYLA chair.

According to Club President Dino Viotti, Jennifer shows great enthusiasm and initiative, contributed fresh new ideas and energy to club projects and has been involved in several club projects. Her actions demonstrate a commitment to “service above self.”

She assisted with the delivery of school supplies to the Clarkdale-Jerome School and with local food-packing events. She is actively involved in youth services, spearheading the club's RYLA Committee. She organized meetings with both students and parents.

She also presented to high school students at Sedona Red Rock Junior High School in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Sedona Village and is in the process of creating a mentorship program at West Valley Sedona Elementary School.