Mark Killingsworth introduced Copeland Nowell prior to the beginning of today’s meeting. Copeland is a native of Hattiesburg and a graduate of Sacred Heart Catholic School. After high school graduation he enrolled in the U.S. Naval Academy and received a full scholarship to the Academy. The scholarship includes tuition, room and board, books, and a $120 weekly stipend for living expenses. It is estimated that the scholarship is valued at $500,000. The Academy is a four-year public university. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science degree and specialized training in an area they wish to enter. They also graduate as a commissioned officer in the Navy or the Marines. In exchange for the scholarship, they agree to serve in the commission for an additional five years after graduation.
 
Mallory Donald presided over the meeting. Ryan Kelly provided the opening prayer. Copeland Nowell led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mallory led the club in the Four Way Test. The meeting was held at the Mugshots Bar and Grill in Hattiesburg. 
 
Richard Topp distributed a sign-up sheet for this year’s Salvation Army bell ringing event. Our club will ring the bells on Saturday, December 3rd and the evening of Tuesday, December the 6th.
 
Stew then conducted the 50/50 raffle. There was no winner, so the pot rolls over to next week.
 
Mallory reported that the board has decided to move forward with our annual wine tasting event. Committee members are needed. If you are interested, please let Mallory know. 
 
Annie Jackson then introduced today’s guest speaker, Danyella Terrell. She is a graduate of the USM School of Social Work and is a licensed social worker. She began her career as an intern at Ellisville State School. Her work experience includes supervision, front line and regional case management, hospice, as well as navigation with the Medicaid Bridge to Independence program. In addition to being a social worker, she owns three businesses in the Hattiesburg area.
 
Danyella encouraged Rotarians to leave a legacy, not for us but for God. Her daily, personal goal is to make someone’s life better. She reminded us that nothing just happens, but everything happens for a reason. She says we should take what we have and make the best of it while being encouraging to others, because you never know when they need you. 
 
There being no further business to come before the club, Mallory thanked Danyella for her remarks. She then adjourned the meeting with our motto: “Service Above Self.”