The Rotary Club of Joliet officially installed John Spesia as its 2026-2027 President, ushering in a new year of leadership, service, and community impact. A longtime Rotarian and champion of the club's clean water and education initiatives in Malawi, Spesia will lead the club's continued commitment to Service Above Self.
The Rotary Club of Joliet officially welcomed John Spesia as its 2026-2027
President during the club's annual Installation Luncheon held June 30 at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate. The event celebrated a successful year under outgoing President Megan Millen while ushering in a new year of leadership, service, and community impact.
President during the club's annual Installation Luncheon held June 30 at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate. The event celebrated a successful year under outgoing President Megan Millen while ushering in a new year of leadership, service, and community impact.Joining President Spesia on the club's leadership team are President-Elect Tracy Simons, President-Nominee Jane Condon, Secretary Ben Stortz, Treasurer Brad McCann, Community Service Director Nick Moran, Club Service Director Kayli Rizzo, Vocational Service Director Paul Hopkins, and International Service Director Mark Inserra.
For Spesia, the installation marks not only a personal milestone but also the continuation of a family tradition of Rotary leadership. His father, Douglas F. Spesia, served as President of the Rotary Club of Joliet during the 1996-1997 Rotary year and devoted much of his life to community service, youth exchange programs, philanthropy, and civic leadership.
A partner at Spesia & Taylor Attorneys at Law, John Spesia has built a distinguished career as an attorney while maintaining a deep commitment to community service and humanitarian outreach. As a longtime Rotarian, he has been particularly instrumental in leading the Rotary Club of Joliet's efforts in Malawi, Africa, where the club has partnered with local Rotary clubs and community organizations to improve access to clean water, education, and healthcare.
Under Spesia's leadership, the Rotary Club of Joliet has helped fund and construct deep-water wells serving villages throughout the Thyolo region of Malawi. These projects have provided safe drinking water to thousands of residents, reducing waterborne illness and improving quality of life for families and schoolchildren. Working alongside Rotary partners in Malawi and neighboring Rotary clubs throughout Illinois, Spesia has helped expand the club's international impact through sustainable, community-driven projects.
The Malawi initiative reflects Rotary's broader mission of creating lasting change. Through Rotary Foundation grants and local fundraising efforts, the Rotary Club of Joliet has supported schools, water infrastructure, and educational opportunities that continue to benefit communities long after the projects are completed. Spesia's dedication to these efforts has made him one of the club's leading advocates for international service.
The Installation Luncheon featured remarks from club leaders, the presentation of the President's Pin by outgoing President Megan Millen, recognition of the retiring president, and remarks from Brother James Gaffney and incoming President John Spesia. The ceremony reflected both the club's rich history and its continuing commitment to leadership and service.
Founded in 1913 as Rotary Club No. 78, the Rotary Club of Joliet has spent more than a century serving the community through scholarships, literacy initiatives, youth leadership programs, community grants, humanitarian projects, and international service. The club remains one of the most respected civic organizations in the Joliet area, bringing together leaders who are committed to making a difference.
As he begins his presidential year, John Spesia brings a deep appreciation for Rotary's traditions, a passion for service, and a vision for continuing the club's impact both locally and globally. Building upon a legacy established by generations of Rotarians—including his own father—Spesia is well-positioned to lead the Rotary Club of Joliet into another year of meaningful service and fellowship.
Interested in Making a Difference?
The Rotary Club of Joliet welcomes community leaders, professionals, business owners, and emerging leaders who are committed to improving their community and the world around them. From local service projects and scholarships to international initiatives like the club's work in Malawi, Rotary offers countless opportunities to serve, lead, and connect with others who share a commitment to Service Above Self.
Interested in learning more about Rotary membership?
Visit the Membership Page: https://jolietrotary.org/page/become-a-member
Prospective members are encouraged to attend a meeting, meet current Rotarians, and discover how Rotary can help them make a lasting difference in the Joliet community and beyond.