chenar

SERVICE

ABOVE

SELF

Who is

Kelly?

Kelly C. Atkinson has been a chartered member of the West Jordan Rotary Club since 1986. He served in the Utah State Legislature for a decade and was the first member of his party elected from his Legislative District since the Great Depression. 


Kelly is a passionate Rotarian who enjoys the many friendships and acquaintances that come from membership in the most important non-denominational, non-governmental organization on the face of the planet,Rotary! 


Past Rotary International President Ray Klinginsmith has encouraged Rotary's Past District Governors to stay active and involved. Kelly does this by providing Rotarians with his insights and experiences learned throughout his Rotary journey. 



KELLY'S BIO

Experience

his "R"

journey

Kelly’s Rotary adventure kicked off in 1987 with a pivotal invitation. Fresh off his election to the State House, he was approached by hospital administrator Bob Ladenberger, who saw in him a perfect fit for the world of service and leadership. Seizing the opportunity, Kelly joined Rotary, becoming a charter member of the West Jordan Utah Rotary Club— a decision that would shape his journey of impact and camaraderie for years to come. Kelly’s Rotary journey has been nothing short of dynamic! Over the years, he’s worn many hats—sometimes twice! From leading as Club President (twice) to guiding
 young global ambassadors as District Youth Exchange Chair, his dedication knows no bounds. He’s championed causes as District Foundation Chair, sparked growth as District Membership Chair (twice), steered the ship as District Governor, and expanded his impact as Zone Assistant Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator and Rotary Coordinator. Wherever there’s a chance to make a difference, Kelly steps up, bringing energy, vision, and a touch of fun to everything he does! 

LEADERSHIP STARTS AT THE CLUB LEVEL

"Everything of importance in Rotary starts with a Rotarian and his or her Rotary Club."

Kelly C. Atkinson, PDG
 his "P"
journey 

Kelly’s journey is one of determination, vision, and a deep commitment to the people he served. At just 19, he set foot on a path that would not only shape his future but also uplift countless others. As the first college graduate in his family, he worked tirelessly to attend the University of Utah while holding a janitorial position in the Granite School District. His leadership qualities quickly became apparent, and soon, he was elected to lead the 500-member Granite Classified Employees Association. In a historic moment, he sat across the negotiating table from T.H. Bell, the School Superintendent, and successfully secured a wage settlement granting classified employees parity with certified personnel—an unprecedented achievement in the district’s history.  Kelly was only 19 at the time. 

In 1975, Kelly took his passion for advocacy statewide, joining the Utah School Employees Association (U.S.E.A.) as a field organizer. His ability to connect with people and inspire action made him the organization's top recruiter, growing membership from 2,000 to 6,000 individuals. His leadership continued to propel U.S.E.A. forward, and as its Executive Director, he expanded the association into Utah’s second-largest public employees organization, boasting 7,200 members. In 1997, his influence reached a national stage when he was elected to lead the 325,000-member American Association of Classified School Employees.  

After an impactful career at U.S.E.A., Kelly transitioned into a new role—one where his expertise could continue to benefit others. From 1998 to 2020, he ran a successful consulting practice in Utah, guiding membership organizations in fostering engagement and growth. His legacy is not just in numbers but in the lives he has touched, the structures he has strengthened, and the pathways he has created for others to follow.


why

Rotary?

Kelly is deeply convinced that Rotary stands as the most impactful non-denominational, non-governmental organization on Earth that actually has a plan for more peace and stability in the world.  While there are countless ways to serve humanity, Rotary is unique—it has a vision for lasting global peace. At a time when the world is crying out for unity and understanding, could there be a greater mission? As the first service organization, Rotary lights the way toward stability, prosperity, and hope, offering real solutions in a time of uncertainty.

For fifty years, Kelly successfully led membership organizations. His belief that attracting and engaging members is a function of planning and organization has resulted in astronomical growth and prosperity in the organizations he has led.  

MEMBERSHIP

Every club needs a SMART goal and an accompanying plan. After a club has accomplished this objective, the club needs only to be held accountable by leadership for implementing the plan.   
Excuses are like heads; everyone has one, some better than others. However, attracting and growing membership is more procedural than circumstance. To blame young people for our current plight of decline is, in Kelly's judgment an excuse.  Once we provide a clear vision and reason of "Why Rotary" over other worthy service organizations,  clubs and districts will grow. 

Through developing and fostering goals and plans, Rotary membership can grow and prosper. Kelly's proven methods of attracting and engaging members have resulted in record membership growth not only in his club but in his district during the years he was responsible for engaging and attracting Rotarians.  

Couple Kelly's successes in membership attraction and growth in the Rotary world with his career as an organizer and the record is clear - Kelly knows how to engage and attract members.  

Speaking

Kelly is a dynamic and sought-after speaker, igniting passion and purpose at Rotary events! With a presence that captivates and a message that resonates, he has delivered powerful talks at Conferences, Zone Institutes, symposiums, Multi-District P.E.T.S., and club meetings. (Check out the YouTube video below for a glimpse of his energy in action!)

His thought-provoking presentations—"Why Rotary?", "The Power of One," and "Everything I Need to Know I Learned from Rotary Exchange Students"—are more than speeches; they are experiences that leave audiences inspired, moved, and ready to make a difference. A master storyteller, Kelly effortlessly weaves humor, heartfelt moments, and profound insights into his talks, ensuring every Rotary function is an unforgettable experience.

True to his commitment to service, Kelly does not charge for speaking at Rotary events. However, he appreciates support with travel expenses so he can continue spreading his message far and wide!



NOTE: This address was given at the Denton all-clubs event outside of Dallas, Texas in 2018. 

Make An Impact -Inspirational Short Video

by Ben Lionel Scott

Why Rotary - August 23, 2017 Speech by Kelly Atkinson

In his speaking repertoire, Kelly has five uplifting topics that he addresses with his audiences:


1. Why Rotary: A 40-minute address filled with humor and motivational stories, focusing on why someone would choose to join Rotary, a membership organization, rather than volunteering in an organization that does not require dues. This talk will ignite passion and commitment in anyone considering joining Rotary.


2. The Four-Way Test: A 30-minute address that will have your members laughing and crying as Kelly explains the profound meaning behind the four-way test. While it is recited frequently at Rotary meetings, many people simply do not grasp what Herbert J. Taylor was advocating. This talk will provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the test's significance.


3. The Power of One: A 40-minute address focusing on the profound impact one dedicated person can have on the lives of others, especially when they have a worthy ideal or purpose. Kelly's journey will tug at your heart and rekindle your spirit towards reaching out and doing more good in the world.


4. The World of Youth Exchange: A 40-minute address sharing the experiences Kelly has had hosting 31 exchange students in his home over the last 38 years. Kelly’s moving and uplifting experiences are sure to inspire and uplift any audience, showcasing the life-changing impact of youth exchange programs. 


The right questions are key in maximizing your Rotary journey. You can learn by on-the-job training, failing, and learning from those failures, or you can benefit from the experiences of others who have walked the path. Kelly is dedicated to assisting those open to the possibilities of heightening  successes while minimizing failures.  

GREAT IDEAS & PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS

As a student of organizational structure and planning, Kelly believes that if you can't measure it you can't evaluate it. If you can't evaluate it, you can't change it. 


PUSH YOUR LIMITS

Kelly enjoys working with DGNs, DGEs, DGs, and just regular Rotarians like himself to make their Rotary experience more enjoyable and productivity.  Below  you may locate productivity tools that can be used by those in leadership to enhance the Rotary experience and grow Rotary. 


Rotarians:  If you have a program to address challenges faced by our beloved organization and would like to send the program for posting on this site, please feel free to do so.  

264

addresses

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63

conferences

3

multi-district PETS

Kelly has received rave reviews for his speeches at both High Country PETS and Lone Star PETS.

 “I have known and worked with Kelly for over fifteen years. He is a fantastic speaker and motivator. This master storyteller will move your Rotary group to action with his energy and tremendous desire to make a difference.”

Greg Podd, RIPVP

 Rotarian | District 5450  
Rotary International Past Vice President
The Rotary Foundation Trustee
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Testimonials

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Jennifer Deroin, P.D.G

Rotarian | District 5400  
Rotary Coordinator Zone 27
2021 to 2024
When planning for PETS, I knew the most important outcome was that incoming Club Presidents would come away inspired, charged up, and ready for the year ahead. The first person I knew that I wanted to call to motivate this important audience, was Kelly Atkinson. Kelly’s spirit and passion for Rotary is contagious. Beyond his infectious enthusiasm, he shares a message that inspires participants to go back into their club or district and take action, in a format that is both powerful and achievable. I highly recommend Kelly for your next Rotary event.
                                                                                    
I have had the pleasure of experiencing Kelly as a trainer and as a motivational speaker at my Rotary events. He has a compelling Rotary story to tell and has great energy that he imparts to his listeners. He is a gifted speaker who will use laughter and tears to inspire you to greater heights. 

Gary King, P. D.G.

Rotarian | District 5520  
Former Attorney General, New Mexico
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We needed a jump start in our clubs and districts. Focused, energetic, and engaging, Kelly's wit and wisdom inspired us to renew our Rotary service with enthusiasm and purpose.                                                                                      

Charles Starnes, P.D.G. 

Rotarian| District 5730 

George Small, P.D.G. 

Rotarian | District 5470

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Kelly has been an inspirational part of my Rotary career of 44 years. He was a co-trainer during my DGE year. Further, as a Zone Coordinator, we had the opportunity to share our Rotary experiences and knowledge. Without question, Kelly was at the top of my list to be the opening speaker at my district conference. Kelly uses humor to help  his audience envision the world as Rotary sees it. In addition, his passion will bring one to tears.

Carol Holmes, P.D.G. 

Rotarian | District 5840 
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When planning my District Conference, my first thought was speakers. My next thought was Kelly Atkinson. I called Kelly, I had heard him before with his humor, knowledge, and passion for Rotary. He agreed, only cost was travel expenses. He was the “hit” of the conference—and he is one of us! Why pay $10,000 for an unknown speaker when you have Kelly. You will not be disappointed.

 Some of the Feedback from 2025 Lone Star Multi-District PETS


"Kelly was absolutely wonderful and very inspirational. I learned so much." | "Very Informative ." | "Kelly was very inspiring love his passion"


 "Kelly's compassion was so very inspiring! Who wouldn't want to be an acive Rotarian after hearing him." | "Emotional. Intense. Great job.


"Fantastic! Best I have heard in two years." | Excellent speaker. His use of movie clips enhanced his message. "| Favorite speaker."


"The best speaker by far this weekend!!!He should have been the main speaker last night! When he said tell the younger generation about a plan for peace, he is exactly right! This should be the message that is spread far and wide in Rotary!!! Great Job,  Kelly."


"I haven't worried much about evaluating any events before now, but Kelly really was motivational and his speech resonated with me. I would love to hear it all over again."


WHEN ASKED, "Was the Speaker relevant to your experience at Lone Star PETS - 100% of those in attendance answered yes. 

 WHEN ASKED, "Should the speaker be invited back next year?" Ninety-Six percent of the attendees said, YES!


Kelly has been invited back to address the 2026 Lone Star PETS. He is honored to be invited back.

Contact

Contact Us

Kelly enjoys speaking or facilitating at various Rotary events to pay-it-forward. He does NOT charge a fee to speak, but appreciates assistance with traveling expenses.