January 2026 Vol.64

A Look Inside

1. District Trio Message
2. News and Announcements
3. Events and Workshops
4. Club Anniversaries
5. Achievements

District Trio Message

Happy New Year, Toastmasters!



As we welcome a brand new year, we step forward into months filled with possibility, momentum, and renewed purpose. January always brings a spark of energy to our Toastmasters journey – a perfect moment to reflect on the past year and renew the investment in ourselves, set fresh goals, and embrace the growth that comes from intentional learning. Whether you’re a seasoned member or just beginning your path, this is the ideal time to dive into a new Pathways project and reignite your commitment to becoming a stronger communicator.

As we take this step, let’s remember that growth is even more powerful when shared. This year, I encourage you to bring guests to your club meetings so they can experience firsthand the confidence, community, and transformation that Toastmasters offers. A simple invitation could be the spark that changes someone’s life.

To support members and your growth, we have a full lineup of educational opportunities coming your way. Keep an eye out for educational workshops designed to support both long‑time members and those just starting out; including sessions on contest planning, judges training, Basecamp basics, and other insightful topics are being prepared to help you sharpen your skills and support your clubs. These workshops are a chance to learn, collaborate, and strengthen the foundation of our District.

If you have any educational or learning needs – please reach out to us and let us know, as we want to ensure we are supporting the needs of our members.

Finally, mark your calendars for one of the biggest highlights of our year: the District 65 Conference on May 1st and 2nd. It will be a weekend of inspiration, connection, and celebration — an opportunity to learn from dynamic speakers, cheer on our contestants, and come together as a district community, celebrating District 65 and all our achievements.

Let’s kickstart this year with purpose, courage, and a commitment to our collective growth. Here’s to new Pathways projects, new learning opportunities, and a year filled with astonishing achievements.

-Gillian Sheldon, DTM

District 65, 2025-26 District Director

-Scott Schaefer

District 65, 2025-26 Program Quality Director

-Jeannette Kreher Heberling, DTM

District 65, 2025-26 Club Growth Director



News and Announcements

District 65 Rewards

District 65 is proud to recognize the dedication and excellence of our members and clubs through exciting achievement rewards. Whether you're building momentum, reaching milestones, or empowering others, your efforts deserve to shine. From individual accomplishments to collaborative club triumphs, our rewards honor progress, passion, and impact. Let’s make this year unforgettable by lifting each other higher. Explore the rewards, aim boldly, and let your achievements be seen, shared, and celebrated across our Toastmasters community!

Please visit https://tmdistrict65.org/incentives65/ for a full list of incentives.

WhatsApp Pathways!!!



Do you have a question about Pathways? Not sure where a speech fits or what requirements you need to complete your Level? Well now you can join the District 65 Pathways Q&A WhatsApp Group – just scan the QR code below to join:

Save the Date!

The 2026 District 65 Annual Conference will take place May 1–2, 2026, at the Buffalo Marriott Niagara, located at 1340 Millersport Highway, Amherst, NY 14221. This year’s theme, “ONE VISION: STRONGER TOGETHER,” celebrates unity, collaboration, and our shared commitment to growth and excellence. Join us for an inspiring weekend of learning, connection, and leadership! More information will be forthcoming.

Click HERE to purchase your ticket!

Call for Education Workshop Presenters!



The Toastmasters District 65 2026 Conference Education Committee is seeking three workshop presenters to lead sessions on communication, leadership, and personal growth on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

Click HERE to submit your workshop idea!

It’s time for nominations for District Officers!

Serving as a District Officer is a great leadership opportunity to take you to the next level in Toastmasters and in your personal and professional development.

The District Leadership Committee (DLC) is accepting nominations for:

• ·       District Director
• ·       Program Quality Director
• ·       Club Growth Director
• ·       Division Directors

The DLC invites applications from energetic, enthusiastic, dedicated individuals interested in providing ethical, quality leadership to serve as District leaders for the 2026-2027 term.

Please click HERE for more information if you are interested in serving the District next year!

Events and Workshops

Club Officer Training: Phase 2

• Club Officer Training Phase 2 equips Toastmasters leaders with practical skills and updated strategies to strengthen club performance and support member success for the remainder of the term.

• Saturday, January 17, 9-10:30am
• Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89646182853

• Sunday, January 18, 2-3:30 pm
• Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86398836426

Mentor Monday

• On the third Monday of every month, any District 65 member has the opportunity to drop in and meet the District Director to ask her anything about Toastmasters.
• Monday, January 19, 6-7 pm
• Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtdu-srjojGt0Adu64au85ki_PIysqqpZJ

Ed Tate workshop on Club Growth

• Come learn about Club Growth from the 2000 World Champion of Public Speaking
• Tuesday, January 20, Noon-1 pm
• Register: https://tinyurl.com/2p345mt4

Contest Master(y) – Bill Spizuoco

• Learn the art of becoming a Contest Master
• Tuesday, January 20, 6:30-8 pm
• Register: https://tinyurl.com/2eb6v8jb

How to be a Contest Judge

• How to be a Contest Judge teaches the essential rules, protocols, and skills for effective contest judging. This workshop provides the knowledge and confidence needed to make fair and impactful decisions.
• Tuesday, January 27, 6:30 pm
• Register: https://tinyurl.com/2hhxf

View trainings and events on the District 65 Website at https://tmdistrict65.org/calendar/.

Anniversaries & Achievements

Club Anniversaries

Empire Statesmen-1954

Spacetalkers-2008

Speakers of the House-2010

Educational Achievements

December 2025

Congratulations on your Pathways Education Achievements!

Level 1

David M. Johnson

Caitlin J. Hyde

John S. O’Hare

Sherry L. Thompson

Ian M. Clayton

Level 2

Jacqueline Madden

Daniel V. Ferens, DTM

Avis C. Brodie, DTM

Level 3

Janet Justice

Level 4

(No awards recorded)

Level 5

Billy Enobakhare

Charulata Chawan, DTM

Maria Maier

Laura Rolnick

Gillian Sheldon, DTM

Distinguished Toastmaster

Charulata Chawan, DTM

CONGRATULATIONS!

*Disclaimer*

The District 65 Team recommends using your personal or home electronic devices to access registration links. Some company devices may have restrictions that could interfere with the process.

Thank you for your understanding, and we appreciate your cooperation.