My journey began by saying YES to being an Area Governor even though I had no idea what it was. It was amazing to learn there was a whole world of clubs besides my own and the experiences opened my eyes to many possibilities. Getting a chance to do more came quickly by saying YES to serving as a Division Governor. Stretching my comfort zone again by delegating and relying on the expertise of others helped me to expand my newly found leadership skills.

Feeling pretty confident that I had learned enough, I was asked to co-chair the Fall Conference. Again saying YES, I discovered there was still more to learn. Working with a committee and learning how to engage people to volunteer and deliver without trying to tell them what to do taught me to recognize and appreciate others.

A short year ago the biggest question was asked. Will you run for Lt. Governor of Marketing? Could I really do this? I didn't know enough people. Who could I get to volunteer? I can't do it by myself. Once I took the " I " out of the questions, there was a belief that it could be done and Toastmasters would be there to help.

Last year was one of the most demanding, scary and rewarding years that I have ever experienced. The support, the people, the rewards and the sense of accomplishment are too BIG to fully describe. It wasn't about me; it was about everyone who said YES when asked and YES when asked again. And saying YES each time with a smile and enthusiasm that was endless. It was the greatest opportunity one person could be given to grow in the company of wonderful people and reach inside yourself to do more than you ever thought possible.

These experiences have made a difference in my work, at home and in my other volunteer positions. Gaining confidence and seeing a positive approach to life in general has reaped rewards at work through several promotions and being recognized for my presentation skills. Most importantly, I have been blessed with many new friends while enjoying the benefits of Toastmasters.

Allan Bernard, DTM Lt. Governor Marketing 2007-2008
I joined Toastmasters in 1999 when my boss suggested that I learn to speak more persuasively or find another job. I gave speeches, evaluated other Toastmasters and saved my job.

My mentors quickly taught me that I could make anything happen with Toastmasters. I was urged to compete and did so in many competitions. I was encouraged to take advantage of leadership opportunities. I became a club President, Area Governor, Division Governor and District Toastmaster of the Year. I was privileged to shared what I learned mentoring new clubs and members. I have met amazing people who will inspire me for the rest of my life.

Because of Toastmasters I have done things I wouldn’t have imagined. I earned an MBA, ran for the Minneapolis City Council, and even found a part-time job teaching at Metropolitan State University. Of course, the best thing that happened to me at Toastmasters was marrying fellow Toastmaster Nancy Bernard in 2003.

I can only imagine what awaits me during my year as Lt. Governor Marketing. Whatever happens, friends who share the same goals will be with me. Together we'll bring the benefits of Toastmasters to everyone in District 6.

Kathy Neumiller, Public Relations Officer, District 6 Toastmasters
It started with a thought in my head, a thought that persisted, a thought that said I should join Toastmasters. Well great, but what IS Toastmasters? Three months later a demo meeting was held where I work. I joined and was the very first to give my ice breaker speech. Brave? Not at all, just afraid if I watched others first I would second-guess myself to the point of not giving the speech at all.

We chartered in March of 2004, in July our President became an Area Governor and I stepped into the President’s role. Brave? Not at all, but I knew if I had to get up in front of that group every week I would get over my fear eventually – and I did. I was Toastmaster of the Year for the 2004-2005 Toastmaster year. The next year I became an Area Governor, and was named Area Governor of the Year for the 2005-2006 year. This last year I took on the role of Central Division Governor. I cannot begin to tell you the personal growth I experienced.

This is all from a girl who was so shy in high school, and all girl’s high school, who would not even raise her hand in class for fear she would be called on. As my 93 year old father likes to say now, when he hears my speeches, “What ever happened to my shy little girl?” Well, Dad, she grew up into a confident, articulate woman, thanks to Toastmasters. All this personal growth and a group of wonderful friends, willing helpers and people who will always be there to spur you on to your next achievement. I would say that is priceless.

There is always room for improvement, and there is always room for Toastmasters in one’s life. It was the most positive and most rewarding decision I have made in my adult life.