Hard working. Generous. Supportive. These are some of Sharon Letson’s character traits but, to her, they are evidence of her family’s legacy. Walk down memory lane with her as she reflects on her upbringing and how she was introduced to Rotary.
Name: Sharon Letson
Preferred Nickname: Nana because my grandkids have made me one!
Years in Rotary: 9
Resident of: Warren
Hometown: Sewickley, Pa
How long have you lived here? 35 years
What brought you here, or kept you here? My college sweetheart was from the area.
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Grove City College
Occupation: Executive Director, Youngstown CityScape
Who is in your family circle? Husband, Dan; daughter, Abby, and her husband, Nick; twin grandsons Warren Joseph and Mitchell Kenneth; son Danny.
Do you have any pets? If so, what are their names and what are they like? A black lab, Lady Bird, who actually is my son’s dog but lives with us!
When you are not working, how do you like to spend your time? Traveling, knitting, gardening.
Why did you join Rotary? Suzanne Fleming invited me to a Rotary lunch and it felt like home. I did not intend to join; I just went because she asked. Clearly Suzanne knew something more about me than I did.
Why do you remain a Rotarian? Because of the people. They are the best people everywhere. Salt of the earth always thinking and doing for others. Also, Rotary energizes me to be better and do more for others.
Which Rotary Project resonates with you and your understanding of our community's needs? I think the Put Kids First program -- either mentoring students or helping out with a coat drive or helping them to understand philanthropy. I am partial to any youth experience. I think our youth need connection with adults. I also like our hands-on, done-in-a-day projects because they are instant gratification and usually so visual.
What does Rotary's motto "Service Above Self" mean to you? To look beyond your own self-interest for the good of the all.
What would you be doing on Wednesdays if you didn't attend the weekly luncheon meeting? Having lunch with our CityScape staff or maybe even eating at my desk.
Which type of Rotary socials do you prefer - black tie affairs or casual attire? Coming out of the pandemic, I am tired of casual attire so I will say black tie affairs.
A Rotary tradition is to have sing-alongs during meetings. Would you ever lead us in a song? I would but as my kids would tell me mom "why don't you sing far, far, away!"
What do you think of Scott Schulick's Rotary pants, and would you wear a pair? They are great for Scott -- not for me!
What's a story of yours that you don't get to tell often enough? The story of my wonderful family. I grew up with a big Italian family. My grandparents had a restaurant and most days after school I would stop there and have my afternoon snack. My family spent Sundays first going to church together and then gathering at my Nana and Grandpa's for dinner. It was full of love, good food and family. Good, hard-working people, fresh food from the garden, and a family that was always at your side. It was a charmed life in such a good way. I think those days and the love and goodness has grounded my values in faith and family and doing good for others. I feel grateful for that foundation.