Join us in Columbus, Ohio for Fun, Connection,
Education, Collaboration, Inspiration
…and a few Surprises!
VIEW THE COLUMBUS INSTITUTE PHOTOS
Tuesday, Sept 2
Wednesday, Sept 3
Thursday, Sept 4
Friday, Sept 5
Saturday AM, Sept 6
Saturday PM, Sept 6
Tailgate Party
The HUB
Group Photos
Videos
About the 2025 Zone Institute
Join us Columbus, Ohio for the 2025 Rotary Zone 30 & 31 Institute. All Rotarians are welcome as we network, innovate, collaborate and celebrate the outstanding work of Rotary. This promises to be an event you won’t want to miss!
Past Rotary International Presidents Ravi Ravindran and Ian Riseley, along with many other dynamic and engaged leaders will be on hand to inform and inspire.
WHERE
Hyatt Regency Columbus
350 North High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
WHEN
DGE-DGN Leadership Learning
September 2 – 4, 2025
Zone Institute
September 4 – 7, 2025
ARRIVAL RECOMMENDATIONS
DGEs & DGNs: Tues, Sept 2, by 4pm
DGs: Wed, Sept 3, by 8am
PDGs and all others: Thurs, Sept 4, arrive by first session at 1:30pm
Saturday Only: Sat, Sept 6, by 8am
Why Attend?
A Welcome from RI Director-elect, Brian Hall
We are excited to welcome you to Columbus! Attending the 2025 Zone Institute offers you and fellow Rotarians from across the region an exceptional opportunity to strengthen your impact and elevate your district’s initiatives.
The event provides a valuable investment in your district and the collaborative environment allows Rotarians to augment their local teams’ resources by tapping into the expertise of Zone and Rotary International representatives.
This unique networking experience also allows you to see beyond your district and build connections with Rotarians from all over the Heart of America. We hope you will bring new ideas back home, ready to share and implement them with your teams.
Plus, we plan to have a good time! The planning team has worked hard to make the Zone Institute a fun and engaging experience for all attendees. From entertaining activities and dynamic speakers to social events that celebrate Rotary’s spirit, we promise your experience to be as enjoyable as it is enriching.
See you in the Arch City!
#ArchCityRotary
Drawing hundreds of Zones 30-31 leaders together to Arch City.
Join Rotarians from Zones 30/31 as we gather under the Arches of the Short North neighborhood for fellowship, inspiration and service.
Columbus, Ohio, earned the nickname “The Arch City” due to the prominent arches that once spanned its streets. In 1888, the city installed wooden arches illuminated by gas lamps along High Street. By 1896, metal arches replaced the wooden ones, serving not only as street lighting but also as supports for electric streetcar wires. The illuminated arches became a symbol of the city, leading to the moniker “The Arch City.”
About Columbus
The Capital of Ohio
Columbus, Ohio, is the vibrant capital city of the Buckeye State, known for its diverse culture, thriving economy, and friendly atmosphere. With a population of nearly 1 million people, it is the largest city in Ohio and the 14th largest in the United States. Columbus is home to The Ohio State University, one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious educational institutions, which brings youthful energy and innovation to the city.
The city boasts a growing tech industry, a bustling arts scene, and exciting culinary offerings. Popular attractions include the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Franklin Park Conservatory, and the lively Short North Arts District. Known for its sports culture, Columbus supports teams like the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Columbus Blue Jackets, and Columbus Crew SC. Plus the Columbus Clippers will be in town Institute week for those interested in attending a baseball game.
Come join Rotarians in this dynamic and welcoming city.
The Countdown is On
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
LEARNING
DGE-DGN — Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday
DG — Wednesday-Thursday
Emerging Rotary Leaders — Friday
RYLA Summit — Friday, open to all
Membership Forum — Friday, open to all
Public Image Forum — Friday, open to all
INSTITUTE
Starts Thursday at 1pm with The Rotary Show featuring Brian Hall, then an evening of fun and excitement
48 Breakout Sessions covering 18 topics on Friday and Saturday
Breakouts centered around the Action Plan and 7 Areas of Focus
Shark Tank – 3 new projects will be featured competing for your support and dollars
ENGAGEMENT
24 Vendors in HUB
Dueling Pianos — Saturday evening
Service Project Pack Away Hungar — Friday 2 shifts
Segway Tours — SOLD OUT!
Jazz Show — SOLD OUT!
Short North Bar Hop — SOLD OUT!
Our Speakers
K.R. ‘Ravi’ Ravindran
Past RI President, 2015-16
Ian Riseley
Past RI President, 2017-18
Vicki Puliz
TRF Trustee, 2025-29
Alex Sheen
Because I Said I Would
Larry Lunsford
RI President Nominee Designate
Patrick Eakes
Treasurer 2025-26, Director 2024-26
Bryn Styles
Past RI Director & Trustee
Patrick Longano
North American Club Creation Team
Brian Hall
Director 2025-27
Michael McGovern
Chair, International PolioPlus Committee
Let’s Join Together
Team Columbus
2025 Columbus Institute Team
 | Craig G. Maxey Reynoldsburg-Pickerington General Chair Contact |
 | J. Richard Churchman Lake Charles Continuity Chair Contact |
 | Ted Huffhines Marshall Program Co-Chair Contact |
 | Sigrid B. Solomon Wilmington Lead Learning Facilitator Contact |
 | Jeris B. Gaston Birmingham Communications/Promotions Contact |
 | Jerome Bannister Downtown Franklin Audio/Visual Contact |
 | Ryan D. Byers Jacksonville Institute Producer Contact |
Brian Hall
Convenor
Craig Maxey
General Chair
Laura Carie
Program Co-chair
Ted Huffhines
Program Co-chair
Rex Engle
Arrangements
Bill Walker
Operations
Michael Brown
Registration
Jeris Gaston
Promotions
Sigrid Solomon
Learning Leader
Diana Savage
Local Engagement
Michelle Charles
Local Engagement
Pat Cross
VIP Coordinator
Jerome Bannister
Audio Visual
Ryan Byers
Stage Manager
Jenifer Yaggi Campbell
Treasurer
Rich Churchman
2026 General Chair
REGISTRATION & CANCELLATION POLICY
CANCELLATION POLICY:
- You may cancel your registration on-line using the same link at which you registered.
- If you cannot cancel your registration online, contact the Registrar to request event cancellation, and include names of those cancelling and identify specified items being cancelled, along with district number/cell number.
REFUND POLICY:
- Through August 5, 2025 – Full Refund.
- August 6 through August 23, 2025 – $50 processing fee and no refund on Training Portions for DG-DGE-DGN packages and prorated amounts on Conference packages.
- No refunds after August 23, 2025
- Refunds will be issued based on form of payment received and subject to approval by RI Director.
- Refunds will be issued after the events ends.
The Venue & Accommodations
Hyatt Regency Columbus
350 North High Street | Columbus, Ohio 43215
614-463-1234
website Must book by August 4, 2025
Rate: $155+tax
- The convention center is connected to the hotel. see map below
- Self-parking: $25 USD daily at Chestnut Street Garage
- Valet parking: $44 USD overnight
- The Columbus airport CMH is 6 miles from the hotel.
- Limited airport transportation will be available.
Experience Columbus on a Segway!
SOLD OUT!
https://www.segawaytoursofcolumbus.com/
Experience the excitement of riding a Segway i2 as you uncover the rich history and vibrant charm of Columbus. This 2-hour guided tour takes you through scenic parkland along the peaceful Scioto River, the dynamic Short North arts district, the bustling Arena District, and the historic heart of downtown. As you glide through the city, your expert guide will share captivating stories and intriguing tidbits about Ohio’s capital, blending history with humor for a truly unforgettable adventure. No experience necessary! Training will be provided prior to your tour.
Tours depart from The Hyatt Regency.
Each tour limited to 9 riders.
Cost: $45 per rider
- Tuesday September 2, 2025. 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
- Wednesday September 3, 2025. 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm (DG-DGE-DGN Do NOT Select Wed)
- Friday September 5, 2025. 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Jazz Show at Ginger Rabbit
SOLD OUT!
https://www.gingerrabbitjazz.com/
Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge is a stylish cocktail bar and jazz club in the heart of Columbus, Ohio. With its cozy, speakeasy-inspired ambiance, the lounge features live music every night, alongside a curated menu of craft cocktails and light bites. The space exudes charm, with its vintage striped wallpaper, rich green walls, tiled ceilings, heavy drapes, and intimate tables adorned with pink velvet chairs. Please note, tickets for the show do not include food and drinks. Musicians are to be determined, and performances typically run for about one hour.
Ginger Rabbit is a 14-minute walk from The Hyatt Regency.
Each session limited to 54 seats.
Cost: $10 per person. Tickets based on availability.
- Tuesday September 2, 2025 – 6:00 PM (DGE-DGN Do NOT Select TUES or WED)
- Wednesday September 3, 2025 – 6:00 PM (DGE-DGN Do NOT Select TUES or WED)
- SOLD OUT — Friday September 5, 2025 – 5:30 PM
Short North Bar Hop
SOLD OUT!
https://shortnorth.org/eat-drink/bars-nightlife/
Join Local Rotarians for a One-of-a-Kind Bar Hop! Explore the vibrant Short North district—a neighborhood known for its colorful, offbeat, and trendy atmosphere. This lively area is packed with art galleries, specialty shops, pubs, nightclubs, and coffee houses, all nestled among historic brick buildings dating back to the early 20th century. Along High Street, you’ll find charming storefronts adorned with bright murals, while nearby blocks feature old rowhouses, classic apartments, and modern condos.
As a group, Rotarians will hop, on foot, between 4-5 bars, enjoying drinks, small bites (some restrictions apply), and plenty of great company. Bar owners may even share stories about the history of their buildings—and maybe even a bar tale or two!
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, explore, and toast to a great time in the Short North!
Tour departs from The Hyatt Regency.
Tour limited to 25 participants.
Cost: $40 per person
- Friday September 5, 2025. 3:00ish – 5:00ish
Welcome to Arch City
REGISTRATION CLOSES AUGUST 24
Select the appropriate tab for additional details.
ERL and RYLA Summit, select the ‘Institute’ tab for details.
Institute
Package includes:
(3 Days T-F-S) -Arrive Thursday Morning before 12 noon
- Thursday Institute starts with lunch, afternoon Entertaining Opening Session and Evening Tail-Gate Party
- Friday Sessions including Lunch (evening free time) (ERL and RYLA classes held on Friday am and pm)
- Saturday Sessions including Lunch and Evening Fun Engagement Dinner
- Sunday breakfast, no program
$575
spouse/partner $575
Plan to arrive by 12noon Thursday September 4
For District Governor Elect or District Governor Nominee
DGE or DGN Package includes:
(5 Days T-W-T-F-S) -Arrive Tuesday by 4pm Tuesday
- Tuesday Relationship Building at PINS Mechanical (10-minute walk to facility)
- Wednesday DGE or DGN Learning and Lunch
- Wednesday Evening Engagement Activity and Dinner
- Thursday DGE or DGN Learning and Lunch
- Thursday Institute starts with lunch, afternoon Entertaining Opening Session and Evening Tail-Gate Party
- Friday Sessions including Lunch (evening free time)
- Saturday Session including Lunch and Evening Fun Engagement Dinner
- Sunday breakfast, no program
$1210
Spouse/Partner $825
DGE’s and DGN’s plan to arrive at hotel on Tuesday September 2 by 4pm.
For District Governors 2025-26
DG Celebration Package includes:
(4 Days W-T-F-S) -Arrive by Wednesday 8am-
- Wednesday DG Learning Sessions including Lunch
- Wednesday Evening Engagement Activity and Dinner
- Thursday DG Learning Sessions including Lunch
- Thursday Institute starts with lunch, afternoon Entertaining Opening Session and Evening Tail-Gate Party
- Friday Sessions including Lunch (evening free time)
- Saturday Session including Lunch and Evening Fun Engagement Dinner
- Sunday breakfast, no program
$775
Spouse/Partner $675
DG’s plan to arrive in time for morning sessions on Wednesday September 3.
For those that have limited time by looking for maximum engagement
-Arrive by Saturday Morning-
- Saturday Session including Lunch and Evening Fun Engagement Dinner
$150
Please note that the Optional Activities are all Sold Out.
Program Overview
tentative 8-31-2025
REFER TO EVENT APP FOR LATEST DETAILS
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2
| 1:30 – 3:00 PM | Optional Experience Columbus on a Segway! |
| 1:00 PM | Facilitator Learning Session (Harrison) |
| 4:00 PM | DGE-DGN w/Partners, Reception, (Harrison) |
| 6:00 PM | Relationship Building at PINS Mechanical (10-minute walk to facility) Italian food menu, drinks included, bowling and other activities included |
| 6:00 PM | Optional Jazz Show at Ginger Rabbit (doors open at 5:30p show starts at 6p) DGE-DGN Do not select this jazz show as you have your own event. |
| 9:00 PM | Director’s Reception for DGN’s, (Director’s Suite) Invitation Only |
| 9:00 PM | Institute Hospitality Cash Bar (Bar on 2) |
WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 3
| 7:00 AM | Breakfast on Your Own |
| 7:30 AM | Registration opens |
| 8:30 AM | DG – DGE – DGN – partners, Learning Session One (Harrison) |
| 12:00 PM | DG-DGE-DGN w/Partners, Lunch (Franklin A-B-C-D (2nd floor)) |
| 1:30 PM | DG, DGE or DGN, Learning Session Two (Delaware A, B, C, D) |
| 2:30 – 4:00 PM | Optional Experience Columbus on a Segway! DG-DGE-DGN Do not select as you will be in class. |
| 3:45 PM | Learning Concludes |
| 4:00 PM | The Great Rotary Challenge – Friendly competition between DGEs, DGNs, DGs, Partners |
| 6:00 PM | Optional Jazz Show at Ginger Rabbit (doors open at 5:30p show starts at 6p) DG-DGE-DGN Do not select as you have your own event. |
| 7:30 PM | DG, DGE, DGN & Partners, Group Dinner Fiesta Celebration |
| 9:00 PM | Director’s Reception for DGE’s (Director’s Suite) Invitation Only |
| 9:00 PM | Institute Hospitality Cash Bar (Bar on 2) |
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 4
| 7:00 AM | Breakfast on Your Own |
| 8:00 AM | Registration Opens |
| 8:30 AM | DG-DGE-DGN Learning Continues (Delaware A-B-C-D) |
| 11:00 AM | HUB Opens Hayes, McKinley |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch (Franklin A-B-C-D (2nd floor)) DG-DGE-DGN including Partners |
| 1:15 PM | DG-DGE-DGN Learning Sessions Conclude |
| ———- | ———- |
| 1:30 PM | Opening Session (Regency Ballroom, 3rd floor) The Rotary Show starring Brian Hall Guests; K.R. ‘Ravi’ Ravindran, Ian Riseley |
| 2:30 PM | Commercial Break – cash bar (Regency Foyer) |
| 3:00 PM – 4:00PM | The Rotary Show starring Brian Hall continues (Regency Ballroom, 3rd floor) Guests; Vicki Pulitz, & Larry Lunsford |
| 5:15 PM | General Session (Regency Ballroom, 3rd floor) Speaker: Alex Sheen, “Because I Said I Would” |
| 6:15 PM | Rotary Tailgate Party at Hyatt – 3rd floor Regency Foyer runs till 9:30pm |
| 9:30 PM | Director’s Reception for DG’s (Director’s Suite) Invitation Only |
| 9:30 PM | Institute Hospitality Cash Bar (Bar on 2) |
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 5
| 6:30 AM | Walk for Polio w/Mark Maloney Rotary Yoga |
| 8:00 AM | HUB and Registration Open |
| 8:00 AM | General Session1 – Membership from Start to Finish Regency Ballroom 3rd floor Speakers: Patrick Eakes & Patrick Longano |
| 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM | RYLA Summit Delaware D |
| 8:00 AM – 3:00PM | ERL Emerging Rotary Leaders Learning Experience (Delaware C) Membership Learning Experience (Delaware A) Public Image Learning Experience (Delaware B) |
| 9:15am – 3:45PM | HUB Hayes and McKinley 1st floor |
| 9:45 AM | Break |
| 9:00 – 10:30 AM |
Breakouts
|
| 10:45 AM | Break |
| 11:00 AM | General Session – Service Projects Shark Tank Style Regency Ballroom 3rd floor Learn about 3 unique service projects |
| 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Lunch (Franklin A-B-C-D (2nd floor)) |
| 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Institute Service Project (Convention Center Hall A 1st floor) Pack Away Hunger – 1st shift |
| 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM |
Breakouts
|
| 2:00 PM | Visit the HUB Hayes, McKinley |
| 2:15 PM – 3:00 PM | Service Project (Convention Center Hall A 1st floor) Pack Away Hunger – 2nd shift |
| 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM |
Breakouts
|
| 4:00 – 6:00ish | Optional Short North Bar Hop |
| 4:00 – 5:30 PM | Optional Experience Columbus on a Segway! |
| 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Optional Jazz Show at Ginger Rabbit (doors open 5p, show starts at 5:30p) |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner on your own – Choose from various local events |
| 8:00 PM | Institute Hospitality – Cash Bar (Bar on 2) |
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 6
| 6:30 – 7:15 AM | Exercise for Peace Rotary Retro Jazzercise or Walk w/Mark and Gay Maloney |
| 7:00 AM | Registration Opens |
| 8:00 AM | Hub Opens |
| 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Major Donor & Bequest Society Champagne Breakfast by invitation Delaware A-B-C-D 2nd floor |
| 9:00 AM | Transition |
| 9:15 AM | General Session Regency Ballroom 3rd floor The Rotary Foundation and Global Grant Impact Speakers: Vicki Puliz, Trustee, The Rotary Foundation Bryn Styles, Past Trustee, The Rotary Foundation |
| 10:15 AM | Transition |
| 10:30 AM |
Breakouts
|
| 11:15 AM | Transition |
| 11:45 AM |
Breakouts
|
| 12:30 PM | Break |
| 12:45 PM | Lunch Franklin A-B-C-D (2nd floor) |
| 1:30 PM | Break |
| 1:45 PM | General Session Regency Ballroom 3rd floor Foundation and Global Grants Impact Speakers: Ian Riseley, Ravi Ravindran, Beth Stubbs |
| 2:45 PM | Break |
| 3:00 PM | HUB Closes |
| 3:00 – 3:45 PM |
Breakouts
|
| 4:00 – 5:00 PM | The Rotary Show starring Brian Hall Regency Ballroom 3rd floor Guests; Mike McGovern, Chair, PolioPlus Committee Bryn Styles, Past Director, Rotary International |
| 5:00 PM | Transition |
| 5:30 PM | Cocktail Reception – cash bar Regency Foyer 3rd Floor |
| 6:30 PM | Dueling Pianos Dinner Party for Polio Regency Ballroom 3rd floor Entertainment: Dueling Pianos Remember to wear Red or Purple |
Hyatt Regency Columbus
350 North High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215