
On January 22 the Rotary Club of Clayton-Ladue celebrated the 100th anniversary of its charter night ceremony that took place January 21, 1925.
The club welcomed many guests, including community leaders Mayor of Clayton Michelle Harris, Ladue School Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke, Ladue Ward III Alderman Bill Brennan, Clayton Teacher Justin Hildebrand, Ladue Teacher Jessica Kennedy, Rotary District Governor Jerry Nolen, and Clayton School Superintendent, Dr. Nisha Patel. Dr. Patel was our featured speaker, echoing the club’s first speaker in Clayton School Superintendent John L. Bracken.
Several former club members joined us for the occasion, including Joan Bradford, Steve Wolken, and Barbara Fraser. Bill Stewart, our club historian and honorary member who participated in our 50th and 75th anniversary celebrations, also attended.
The meal was catered by Gourmet to Go and capped off with custom-labeled 100th anniversary cookies from Gooey Louie, both with locations in Clayton and Ladue.
President Toni Shelton delivered opening remarks and welcomed our guests. She shared highlights of the club’s history and some of our significant accomplishments through the years.
District Governor Nolen presented a Rotary District certificate acknowledging our 100th anniversary, along with a proclamation recognizing the special day.
Mayor Harris delivered remarks and noted her thanks to the club for contacting her to discuss our service to the community. She mentioned the recent closing of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce and our club’s offer to help meet some of the now unfilled needs of the business community. She read from her Mayoral Proclamation that January 22, 2025 is the Rotary Club of Clayton-Ladue Day in the city of Clayton.
St. Louis County also recognized our Club with a Proclamation signed by County Executive Sam Page, which was on display for all guests to see. It was printed on the back of our event program.
Dr. Patel then delivered her remarks about the Clayton School District. We learned about the student population of the various schools; the history of the buildings they occupy, including their ages; and some of their ideas for the future. She closed with a memorable story about her family, growing up in Kenya, and moving to St. Louis at age nine. She spoke of her father’s Rotary membership and the word he often used, “Harambee,” which means “stronger together.” Dr. Patel tied her father’s words to the philosophy of Clayton schools, saying that a focus on everyone working together makes the system stronger. She thanked the club for the honor of asking her to speak, reflecting its first speaker 100 years ago.
President Shelton and President-Elect Emily Jernigan closed the meeting with the Rotary Four Way Test. Many guests and members remained well after the closing bell, with old friends reconnecting, and new friendships starting.