Stillwater Sunrise Rotary Celebrates 40 Years of Service!

GREATER STILLWATER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE / PRESS RELEASE Chamber Celebrates 40th Anniversary for Stillwater Sunrise Rotary.  Rich Cummings and Roger Ruetten cut the ribbon at the Chamber ribbon cutting celebration on July 9th, 2025.

Founding members Rich Cummings and Roger Ruetten had the honor of cutting the ribbon together,  a powerful moment that reflected the legacy and heart of this incredible organization. They were joined by current and past Rotarians, community leaders, nonprofit partners, Chamber staff and ambassadors, and many dear friends and family who gathered downtown Stillwater to mark the occasion.

In true Rotary fashion, the event was not only a celebration, it was a tribute to service above self. The Stillwater Sunrise Rotary set up a vibrant booth near the iconic Historic Lift Bridge, proudly showcasing posters and stories from decades of service projects. From warm hugs to tearful reunions, the energy of gratitude and community was palpable as Rotarians from across the years came together.

With 60 active members, Stillwater Sunrise Rotary has impacted over 120,000 lives in the past year alone, through both local and global service efforts. President Nancy Lyner delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on 40 years of achievements while sharing bold, compassionate dreams for the decades ahead.

Special guest speakers Karen Keenan, Executive Director of Valley Friendship Club, and Andrew Thelander of District 834, shared moving testimonials about the transformative support Rotary has provided; from grants, scholarships, inclusive playgrounds, and youth mentorship programs, to reading initiatives that light up classrooms across the community.

Rick Heidick, Chair of the popular Bridge the Valley Bike Ride, spoke to the success of this signature Rotary fundraiser, now in its fifth year,  which brings together hundreds of cyclists and generous donations to support local causes. The celebration also spotlighted impactful international efforts like Crutches 4 Africa, among many other global outreach projects.

Stillwater Sunrise Rotary’s 40th anniversary wasn’t just a celebration of years,  it was a celebration of purpose, progress, and people. The legacy of service they’ve built continues to ripple through our community and around the world.

Congratulations, Stillwater Sunrise Rotary;  and here’s to the next 40 years of service, leadership, and lasting impact. 

Stillwater Sunrise Rotary
Stillwater, MN 55082
Stillwater Sunrise Rotary