Rotary Leadership Institute International

Rotary Leadership Institute

” No ray of sunshine is ever lost , but the green which it awakens into existence needs time to sprout, and it is not always granted for the sower to see harvest “

About Us

Rotary Leadership Institute International?

The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is a multi-district, grassroots leadership development program of member districts organized into regional divisions in various parts of the world.

RLI is a recommended program of Rotary International.

RLI seeks to provide quality education in Rotary knowledge and leadership skills to Rotarians interested in developing their Rotary participation and to those identified by Rotary Clubs as having a potential in club leadership. These educational opportunities will teach skills that will benefit the members in their lives and in their volunteer service.

Annual Dues

Please contact Mary Ellen Bentler for information on paying annual dues.

RLI Brochure

The Annual Brochure contains information about the organization for potential members and students including information about course content.

Annual Report

The Annual Report contains financial and organizational information about RLI as well as highlights of the past year.

International RLI Officers 2024-25

Antonio Hallage

International Chair

Michael McGovern

International Immediate Past Chair

Leila Risteli

International Vice Chair

George Sundararaj

International Vice Chair

Paul Muczynski

International Executive Director

Why Us

We’re Committed To Delivering More Than Just Care — We Focus On Personalized Healing

Teach Skills

98%

Honest Conversation

95%

Specialized Experience

100%

Here is what our Students are Saying!

“Every Club President Nominee, Elect and President should attend RLI prior to taking office! Meaningful training beforehand provides knowledge.…“

“Courses are fun, topical, and interactive…fast-paced and geared to refining leadership skills.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why we need The Rotary Leadership Institute

It is generally agreed throughout the Rotary world that the success or failure of a Rotary Club depends on the quality of club leadership. It has been said that poor club leadership is the primary cause of membership losses. Because of the annual turnover of club officers, Rotary needs a constant influx of knowledgeable Rotarians who have the leadership skills necessary to move a club forward. It is difficult to learn enough about the exciting world of Rotary with its more than 1.2 million members in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Furthermore, leadership skills in a voluntary organization are often different from business leadership skills. RLI provides an opportunity for quality Rotary education that is usually not otherwise available.

What is the philosophy of RLI?

RLI believes that having leadership skills does not alone assure good Rotary leadership. An effective Rotary leader must ALSO have Rotary knowledge, perspective about where Rotary has been, where it is now going and a vision of what Rotary can be.

What is the "recommended curriculum"?

RLI provides to its divisions a recommended curriculum annually for a basic course in three full days. The three days are called Parts I, II and Ill and are generally not taken consecutively in order for the participants to gain perspective through their club activities in between the Parts. RLI also recommends a program of graduate seminars for those who have completed the three basic Parts. Since the founding of RLI, the curriculum has been continually reviewed, updated and revised as the result of experience and the evaluations of the attendees.

What are the teaching methods?

The Institute believes in course sessions with as much discussion/participation as possible. Discussion breakout sessions are limited to approximately 15 persons. Lectures are strictly limited. Course methods include discussion groups, role-playing, problem solving workshops and creating projects. Everyone participates during one of the lnstitute’s sessions. Course materials including session outlines, the daily program, faculty listings and resource materials are provided to all participants.

Who are the faculty?

Faculty members are carefully selected for their teaching abilities. Many are present and past R.I. directors, district governors, presidents and those with experience in special areas. Each new faculty member must attend a full day training program and various periodic reorientation programs. The results of course evaluations help to improve the course content and instruction.

Who should attend RLI courses?

Although any Rotarian may attend RLI courses, RLI recommends that Rotary Clubs encourage Rotarians who have the potential for ‘uture club leadership, not necessarily as club presidents, to attend. The ideal candidate is early in their Rotary career, has a strong interest, and is prepared to be exposed to the larger world of Rotary outside of the club. Clubs are expected to pay the fees for their members at(ending the courses.

What are the costs and where are classes held?

Courses are normally held in hotels, colleges, schools, public buildings, etc. conveniently located for club members. The course fees are set by each Division Executive Committee based on site costs, meals, materials, and other necessary expenses. Within a Division the curriculum is the same at any course site so participants may take the various Parts at different sites and dates.

What is an RLI division?

For administrative purposes, RLI creates “divisions” that may consist of one or more Rotary districts, countries, zones, etc. Each division works with RLI to arrange course schedules, set policies, and handle finances. Each division pays modest dues to RLI. Divisions are formed by written agreements signed by district governors and RLI officers. RLI has divisions/districts in every Continent of the world except Antarctica.

Should our club participate?

If your club cares about its future, it will want the best leadership possible. This is an outstanding opportunity for each club to improve the Rotary knowledge of its key people, who will also be exposed to new ideas of leadership. The exchange of ideas with other experienced Rotarians alone makes the courses worthwhile.