Being CMIRC: Where Our Story Began

As we look back on CMIRC’s early years, we are reminded that our club was built through friendship, service, and the determination of members who believed that an English-language Rotary club in Northern Thailand could make a meaningful contribution to the community.

Chiang Mai International Rotary Club was officially chartered on February 21, 2014, and was designated by Rotary International as Club #85590. From its beginning, CMIRC had a unique identity as the only Rotary club in Northern Thailand conducting all meetings solely in English.

The club’s commitment to service began even before the official charter. The founding group started work with its first service project, Mae Tao Clinic, in 2013. That early effort helped set the tone for the club’s future: practical service, cross-cultural friendship, and a strong focus on people who need support.

Roger Lindley served as Charter President, helping guide the new club through its formation. Nancy Lindley, a Charter Member and long-serving Treasurer, is fondly remembered as the “last piece of the puzzle” needed to officially charter the club and as someone who deeply embodied Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self. Other early organizers, including Jerry Nelson and many dedicated members, helped build the foundation that continues to support CMIRC today.

A June 2015 installation photo, showing Charter President Roger, President-Elect Joe, and President-Nominee Shana, captures the end of a successful first year and the beginning of the leadership continuity that helped CMIRC grow into the active service club it is today.