Speakers & Programs

Imagine: Protecting the Environment

We are excited about the programs we have scheduled for you. Our guest speakers from Canada and the U.S. will include those who are involved in environmental work locally and internationally. Programs will follow our conference theme “Imagine: Protecting the Environment” – exploring one of Rotary’s newest focuses. The programs and information include alternative energy sources by some of our local utility companies, habitat restoration and management, electric and hybrid vehicle development, alternative fuel vehicles, recycling operations, and other ways Rotarians are working to protect the environment.

Lake Huron is a common environmental bond between us. Programs will raise awareness of the needs of our local and regional environment, highlight the efforts already in place by Rotarians throughout our District, and inspire you to find ways to get involved with this critical Rotary focus.

Friday, June 23 – Plenary Speakers

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Mayor Sheldon Neeley, City of Flint
The Mayor will be our keynote speaker presenting on how the City of Flint is overcoming environmental challenges.

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Michael Kelly, Director of the Great Lakes Office, The Conservation Fund
As a grantee of the C.S. Mott Foundation, Mike will talk about his organization’s freshwater initiatives in the Great Lakes, and in particular Lake Huron.

Saturday, June 24 – Plenary Speakers

9:00 am – 9:55 am

Edgar H. Benning, General Manager/CEO, MTA Flint
We will hear about the latest in alternative fueled public buses and transportation vehicles used by the forward-thinking transportation authority.

11:10 am – 12:10 pm

Dr. Robert K. McMahan, President, Kettering University
Kettering University is a world-renowned, STEM-focused institution. Dr. McMahan will discuss the University’s ground-breaking autonomous vehicle testing facility and alternative transportation studies.

2:00 pm – 2:50 pm

Consumers Energy and Bruce Power
Representatives from these two energy companies will discuss alternatives to coal-generated energy and their work in supporting a sustainable environment.

4:00 pm – 4:50 pm

Flint River Watershed Coalition and the Great Lakes Plastic Cleanup
Boots-on-the-ground organizations like this are responsible for much of our environmental stewardship. See how their efforts are working and how you can be part of the solution.

Saturday, June 24 – Breakout Sessions

10:05 am – 11:00 am

Aquabox
Shelterbox
ESRAG Operation Pollination
ESRAG Clean Cooking

3:10 pm – 3:50 pm

Aquabox
Shelterbox
ESRAG Plant Rich Diet
Club Technology

CLICK HERE FOR SPEAKER BIOS

Rotary shares an interest in protecting our common legacy: the environment. We are committed to supporting activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of natural resources, advance ecological sustainability, and foster harmony between communities and the environment. We empower communities to access grants and other resources, embrace local solutions, and spur innovation in an effort to address the causes and reduce the effects of climate change and environmental degradation.