D66 Toastmasters Times | Issue 11 | March 2026

Editor’s Note

Welcome to the March issue of the D66 Toastmasters Times. We are now three-quarters of the way through the 2025-2026 Toastmasters Year.

Read on for:

• Messages from our Trio.
• Upcoming District wide events including the Conference in May
• The “Club Corner”, which includes valuable information for Clubs
• The regular features include tips for improving your speeches, meet a member
   and the celebration our clubs and members.
•  At the very end of the newsletter, there is a list of all of the roles & volunteers
   that support the District.

I hope you find this information helpful. If you have any topics you’d like included in the May D66 Toastmasters Times, please let me know.

Until next time,

Kristine Vey, DTM, editor
d66news@tmdistrict66.org

MESSAGES FROM THE TRIO

District Director – Doretha Pair, DTM

Greetings from the District Director

District 66,

We are in the final stretch to the finish line. Let’s finish strong. I am asking each member to invite at least one person who could potentially join our organization. Remember to get those dues in, so that all clubs can be in paid status on April 1st. Aim high and achieve all your goals this year. I am still challenging all members to try to get a Triple Crown this year.

It is the goal of the District Leadership that we finish at least Distinguished. We can do this if we all unite and work together. Work to complete those Pathway Projects and to increase membership. If you would like to sponsor a club, we are offering a $50.00 Toastmasters gift card for your efforts.

We can do this. Our goal for the year is, Together, We are stronger. If we work on our plan, unite, and come together on one accord, we can do great things.

Let’s Finish Strong

Doretha A Pair, DTM

2025-2026 District 66 Director

Program Quality Director, Marilynn Vaughan

Unlocking Your Potential: Purpose, Empowerment, and Personal Growth
A message from Dr. Marilynn Vaughan, Program Quality Director, District 66

Before we talk about unlocking potential, let’s begin with an important question: What is your “why” for Toastmasters?

Why did you join? Perhaps you wanted to become a more confident speaker, grow as a leader, challenge yourself, or connect with others who value learning and personal development. Your “why” is powerful because it is the starting point of your growth journey.

That is why the theme of the District 66 Annual Conference — “Unlocking Your Potential: Purpose, Empowerment, Personal Growth”—is so meaningful. It invites each of us to pause, reflect, and recommit to our development as communicators and leaders.

What Does Unlocking Your Potential Mean?

Unlocking your potential means discovering and developing the abilities within you that are waiting to be activated.

Think of potential like a door. The opportunity is already there. The ability is already inside you. Growth happens when you choose to turn the key and walk through the door.

In Toastmasters, that key might look like giving your icebreaker speech, accepting a leadership role, receiving constructive feedback, completing a Pathways level, or setting your sights on the prestigious Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation.

Growth Is Intentional—Not Automatic

One of the most important truths about personal development is this: growth is intentional, not automatic.

Time alone does not develop leaders. Purposeful action does. Just as a seed needs sunlight and care to grow, our potential develops when we intentionally invest in learning, practice, and reflection. Toastmasters creates the environment where that growth can happen—week after week, speech after speech.

Pathways: A Framework for Growth

The Toastmasters Pathways learning experience provides a powerful roadmap for personal and professional development. Through Pathways, members build communication and leadership skills through practical projects and real-world experience. Each completed level represents not only an educational milestone but another step in unlocking your potential. For many members, this journey leads to achieving the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation, the highest educational award in Toastmasters.

A Golden Opportunity

We are honored that Past International President Lark Doley will join us at the District 66 Annual Conference. Her inspiring Golden theme reminds us that leadership and service create something valuable that shines in the lives of others.

Every Toastmaster has untapped potential—to speak with confidence, lead with courage, and inspire others. The question is simple:

What door will you unlock next?

Together, we will continue unlocking potential—one speech, one leader, and one courageous step at a time!

Together We Are Stronger. Together We Are District 66.

With heart, purpose, and vision,
Dr. Marilynn Vaughan, DL5, TC4
Program Quality Director 2025-2026
pqdirector@tmdistrict66.org
“Let’s grow together—on purpose.”

Club Growth Director, Jacqueline Harrison, DTM

Start Something New: How Niche Clubs Can Spark Growth in Our District

One of the most exciting opportunities for Toastmasters growth is the creation of community-based niche clubs. These clubs focus on a shared interest, profession, or life experience, making them incredibly appealing to people who may not realize that Toastmasters could be exactly what they are looking for.

Traditional clubs will always be the backbone of our organization. However, niche clubs offer something unique—they connect the power of communication and leadership development with a specific passion or purpose. When people see a club centered around something they already care about, they are far more likely to join and stay engaged.

For anyone who has ever thought about starting a club, consider this: the most successful new clubs often begin with a simple idea built around a shared interest.

Below are some creative niche club ideas that could thrive in our communities.
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✈️ Travel Talkers Club

Imagine a club where members prepare for the trip of a lifetime while improving their speaking skills. Members could give presentations about travel destinations, practice travel scenarios, and share cultural experiences. A travel-themed club could easily attract retirees, students studying abroad, and adventure travelers.
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🌎 Language Exchange Speakers Club

Many people want to improve their English-speaking skills while also celebrating their own language and culture. A multilingual club could allow members to practice short speeches in English while occasionally sharing stories in their native language. These clubs are especially attractive to international professionals and students.

________________________________________

🎤 Storytelling & Open Mic Club

Some individuals are drawn to storytelling, humor, poetry, and spoken word. A storytelling-themed club could host creative speech nights, story circles, or comedy-focused meetings, making it a welcoming environment for writers, performers, and creatives.

________________________________________

💼 Entrepreneur Pitch Club

Entrepreneurs and small business owners are constantly presenting ideas and pitching services. A Toastmasters club focused on entrepreneurship could help members refine elevator pitches, practice investor presentations, and strengthen networking skills.

________________________________________

🌱 Confidence Builders Club

For many people, public speaking is intimidating. A club focused specifically on building confidence step-by-step can create a supportive space for beginners who want to overcome fear and grow at their own pace.

________________________________________

🎥 Content Creators Speaking Club

With the growth of podcasts, YouTube, and social media, many content creators are looking to improve their presentation and storytelling skills. A club designed for creators could help members practice on-camera speaking, interviews, and audience engagement.

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🌍 Leadership for Nonprofits Club

Nonprofit leaders often need strong communication skills to inspire volunteers, present ideas to donors, and advocate for important causes. A nonprofit-focused club could become a valuable training ground for community leaders.

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👩‍💼 Women in Leadership Club

A club dedicated to developing women leaders can provide mentorship, encouragement, and opportunities to practice leadership communication in a supportive environment.

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🧑‍💻 Young Professionals Club

Early-career professionals often seek opportunities to strengthen their communication skills. A club focused on young professionals can help members gain confidence in meetings, interviews, and leadership roles.

________________________________________

🏡 Community Storykeepers Club

Every community has powerful stories. A storytelling club focused on preserving local history and sharing life experiences could bring together people from different generations and backgrounds.

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Why Niche Clubs Grow Quickly

Niche clubs work because they provide a clear purpose and shared identity. When people see a club centered around travel, entrepreneurship, storytelling, or professional development, they immediately understand the value.

Instead of simply inviting someone to join a public speaking club, you’re inviting them to join something that speaks directly to their interests.
________________________________________

Could Your Idea Become the Next Great Club?

Some of the most successful Toastmasters clubs started with one simple question:

“Would anyone be interested in a club like this?”

If you have an idea for a niche club in your workplace, community, or professional network, now may be the perfect time to explore it.

Starting a club is easier than many people think, and there is support available every step of the way.

If you would like to explore the possibility of starting a new club in your community or organization, please feel free to reach out. Club Growth Director would be happy to help you brainstorm ideas, connect you with mentors, and guide you through the process.

Together, we can continue building vibrant clubs that help people find their voice, grow their leadership skills, and strengthen our communities.

Incentives from club growth director

*Ribbon for charter strength membership

*Ribbon for adding 5 new/dual members

https://www.toastmasters.org/Membership/Leadership/club-officer-tools/membership-building/membership-building-programs-for-clubs/

*Pin for bringing 2 new members into your club

*$50 TMI gift certificate to sponsor a new club

🌟 District Club Growth Support 🌟
Together, we build stronger clubs, stronger leaders, and stronger voices.

📬 Contact: Jacquie Harrison, DTM
📧 ClubGrowthDirector@aol.com | 📱 (757) 651-9055

District 66 Annual Conference
May 1-2 in Charlottesville

REGISTER HERE

REGISTER HERE

Are you interested in supporting the District by sponsoring? Contact Chastity at chasity.bailey@dominionenergy.com for more information.

Club Corner – Information & Updates for Clubs

Here’s a Shout Out from our Club Growth Director (Jacquie) to the following clubs for having 20 paid members (charter strength) as of March 12!

Expressions
Richmond FedMasters Club
Danville Club
Tunnel Talkers, An Altria Group, Inc. Club
Harrisonburg Toastmasters Club
HCA Captivating Capital Communicators
Eastman Performance Films Martinsville
DEQ Toastmasters
Hoos Speaking
VCU Toastmasters
Vinegar Hill Toastmasters Club
Voices in Transit
Blue Ridge Club
Virginia Beach Club
First Choice Toastmasters Club
Walker Business Leaders Toastmasters Club
West End Toastmasters Club
Western Branch Toastmasters Club
Generally Speaking Toastmasters
V.O.I.C.E.S. of Williamsburg Club
Richmond Club
ToastMaxers
Innsbrook Toastmasters
Peninsula Powerhouse Speakers
St. Michael Toastmasters
Speak Easy Club
Toast & Jam!

Speech Contests are continuing!

The finals will be held at the District 66 Conference.

Table Topics will be Friday night and International Speech will be Saturday evening.

District Realignment Update – District 29 and District 66 will be combined as of July 1, 2026. Here’s the latest:

Here is a general approximation of the new division letter designations:

A – Current D29 Division A
B – Current D29 Division B
C – Current D29 Divisions C and D
D – Current D29 Division E
E – Current D29 Division F

F – Current D66 Division A
G – Part of the current D66 Division B
H – Parts of the current D66 Divisions B and D
I – Part of the current D66 Division D

Presidents and VPEs will be electing the new District Leadership at the District 218 Business Meeting on May 7 at 7:00 – 9:00 pm on Zoom.

Here is a link with general information and information about each candidate. (click all the links)

The candidates showcase will be April 23rd on Zoom – starting at 7:00 pm

LEVEL UP and WIN:
From Level to Lanyard: The Pathways Spring Sprint!

Between February 1 and April 15, we’re celebrating your Pathways progress with a fun and rewarding opportunity!!

The Reward: a Toastmaster Lanyard and an Outstanding Member pin

More information is here

Word of the Day: Cascade

Speakers Corner

Who Knows “Starry Night”?

Vincent Van Gogh is one of the world’s greatest and most unique artists. He only sold one painting in his lifetime for the equivalent of $2450 in today’s dollars. His paintings over the last 100 years have brought some of the highest prices of any artist going for 10s -100s of millions of dollars per painting. I don’t know anyone who could afford to own one. Even though Vincent’s paintings never achieved the acclaim in his lifetime that they eventually do, the truth is, he produced them. Generations have and continue to appreciate his work.

Vincent carried on in his style producing so many masterpieces. Many of us can look at a Van Gogh and identify it as one of his because of his unique painting style. When we set out to write a speech, we shouldn’t think of the other great speakers as our models to imitate. Staying original could become our biggest success. Your unique point of view, vocal variety, and delivery can become the element that captures your audience. Vincent’s originality made his work one of the biggest contributions to fine art in history. Your original thought and presentation could be what the world needs to feel included, understood, loved, and reflected. Don’t try to become somebody else you admire as a speaker because we’ve already seen that show and your show’s the one we want to see.

Mike Etchemendy, DTM

Meet a Member – where we introduce you to other Toastmasters throughout the District.

They were all asked: How would you describe the culture of your club? What do you do outside of Toastmasters? How has being a TM affected your personal or professional life? What advice would you give to a new member as they begin their membership?

Division A

Al Tuten, DTM

Harrisonburg Toastmasters

Toastmaster for 25 years

District Governor (Director)
2011-2012

Region Adviser
2015-2016 and 2018-2019

How would you describe the culture of your club?
Words that come to mind are welcoming, inviting, intentional, committed (to excellence in all we do), discerning. Fun is not our purpose, but I don’t see how we could be so characterized without some “fun” as a side effect.

Of the past 16 years, we have been President’s Distinguished 13 times, earning all 10 DCP goals 11 of those years. As of now, in this 25-26 year, we have already earned all 10 DCP goals, with 20+ members paid through September 2026.

What do you do outside of TM?

Ten years ago I experienced God’s sense of humor (who me?) and on the first Sunday in July, 2016 I found myself (weekly) behind a pulpit. But wait, there’s more. This past May, I got a phone call from someone I never heard of, and as of July this past year, discovered West Augusta and the saints of a second church.

How has being a TM affected your personal and / or professional life?

Clearly there is a direct correlation between what is expected of me as a Toastmaster member and what is expected of me on Sunday mornings. Toastmasters brings practice in preparing, leading, speaking, and most of all listening

Advice to a new member as they begin their membership.

One should NOT expect short term results. Skill in any pursuit comes from regular and sustained practice. One should expect some measure of preparation between meetings (but nothing approaching a second full-time job. One can depend on members of his/her club, realizing that those same members expect nothing more, nothing less in return.

Division B

Ibironke Lawal

VCU Toastmasters (since 2013)
Innsbrook Toastmasters (since 2023)
Westend Toastmasters (since 2024)

Area 22 Director 2024-2025

The clubs of which I am a member foster a friendly, supportive environment for members to learn from each other and be inspired by others. We intentionally weave the Toastmasters values of Respect, Integrity, Service, and Excellence into our club culture.

The clubs are diverse—physically, culturally, and intellectually—which ensures that every member feels welcome and develops a strong sense of community. Through a culture of mentoring, members are empowered to become effective communicators and leaders in an atmosphere that builds self-confidence and supports personal growth.

Outside of Toastmasters, I am a Professor and Librarian. My role is to curate and support resources for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines. I also serve on the Board of Podium RVA, a volunteer nonprofit organization that provides writing, communication, and leadership development programs for youth ages 11–19.

I have benefitted immensely from my membership of Toastmasters. The resulting experience has enhanced my leadership and communication skills to the level which enables me to speak with confidence to peers and superiors. As a librarian, I am trained to analyze problems, gather evidence, evaluate options, and recommend effective solutions—skills that translate directly into club coaching and strategic decision-making at the district level. As an Area Director, I guided clubs toward best practices and connected members to training opportunities and Pathways resources, much like I organize information and guide individuals to credible, high-quality resources in my professional work. Through Toastmasters, I have gained confidence to speak to audiences of any size and to think fast on my feet. I have also expanded my social and intellectual capital.

I advise new members to know their “Why” that brought them to Toastmasters. Then take the journey step by step following the Toastmasters’ promise. I recommend that they take advantage of all opportunities at their disposal, working closely with mentors to contribute meaningfully to their clubs. Lastly, I encourage them to use the Features, Benefits, and Value publication to focus on the personal and organizational value they can gain from Toastmasters.

SAVE the DATES

Watch the D66 website calendar for details & Registration links

Mar 21 – Area 12 & 14 (Combined) Speech Contests – Salem

Mar 24 – District Town Hall, open to all members, on Zoom.
Featuring “The Multiplier Effect: R2 = Retain x Reclaim”

Mar 28 – Division B Speech Contests – Glen Allen

Mar 31 – Deadline for clubs to have 8 paid members and be in good standing for upcoming contests

Mar 31 – Early Bird Conference Registration Ends

April 2 – First Thursdays

April 6 – Momentum Mondays

April 11 – Division A Speech Contests – Lynchburg, VA.

April 23 – District 218 Candidate Showcase on zoom at 7:00 pm

April 30 – 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm – District 66 Annual Business meeting (Pres., VPEs, DEC) on Zoom

May 1-2 – District 66 Conference in Charlottesville.

May 4 – Momentum Monday – 7:00 – 8:30 pm

May 7 – D218 Business Meeting 7:00 – 9:00 pm (District Officers will be elected)

June 4 – Momentum Mondays

June 7 – First Thursdays

June 30 – END of Toastmasters Year – Officer lists due for DCP credit

CONGRATULATIONS to the newest Distinguished Toastmasters (DTM)

Sal Asad, DTM
Venus Wilmer, DTM
Lamees Abourahma, DTM
John R. Jones, DTM
Tanya White-Deyo, DTM


CONGRATULATIONS to members who have earned a Triple Crown*

Carmen Freeland
Carol Curran
Deannea Dameron
Deborah H. Hillman
Jacqueline Harrison
Lemika S. Early
Michelle Willke
Nick Mastrovito
Peter Cook
Richard Coleman
Robin Jenkins
Sabine Charles
Sadananda Chikkaveerappa
Sandra Davis
Sharon K. Bares
Steve Schubert
Venus Wilmer

*3 Education Awards in the Toastmasters Year

As of 3/14/2026

DISTRICT LEADERSHIP:

Immediate Past District Director Jim Kennedy ipdd@tmdistrict66.org

Administration Manager Sandra Davis admin@tmdistrict66.org

Financial Manager LaTanya Hicks finance@tmdistrict66.org

Public Relations Manager (PRM) Cassandra Sabo pr@tmdistrict66.org

Logistics Manager Linda Kennedy logistics@tmdistrict66.org

Parliamentarian Tishaun Ugworji parliamentarian@tmdistrict66.org

Data Analyst Teresa Chambers data@tmdistrict66.org

Division A Director Tanya White-Deyo, DTM diva@tmdistrict66.org

Area 11 Director Venus Wilmer, DTM area11@tmdistrict66.org

Area 12 Director Susan Mathias area12@tmdistrict66.org

Area 14 Director Rich Coleman, DTM area14@tmdistrict66.org

Area 18 Director Bei Chen area18@tmdistrict66.org

Division B Director Carla Davis divb@tmdistrict66.org

Area 21 Director Frederica Ricks area21@tmdistrict66.org

Area 22 Director open area22@tmdistrict66.org

Area 23 Director Michelle Evans area23@tmdistrict66.org

Area 24 Director Jessica Nowlin area24@tmdistrict66.org

Area 25 Director Ina Brown Mitchell area25@tmdistrict66.org

Area 26 Director Wes Bonafe area26@tmdistrict66.org

Area 27 Director Gayle Turner area27@tmdistrict66.org

Division D Director Michelle Willke divd@tmdistrict66.org

Assistant Division D Director Trevina Jefferson area42@tmdistrict66.org

Area 41 Director Lemika Early area41@tmdistrict66.org

Area 42 Director Trevina Jefferson area42@tmdistrict66.org

Area 43 Director Drusilla Pair area43@tmdistrict66.org

Area 44 Director Amanda Albright area44@tmdistrict66.org

Area 45 Director Anita Jennings area45@tmdistrict66.org

Area 46 Director Myra Alcorn area46@tmdistrict66.org

PQD Support Roles:

SLI/WLI Co-Deans and DTM Coordinators Kitty Boitnott, DTM & Vicky Lyle, DTM education@tmdistrict66.org

Education and Training Co-Chair (PQD) Robin Jenkins education@tmdistrict66.org

Pathways Chair Lynne Claiborne, DTM pathways@tmdistrict66.org

D66 Speech Contest Chair Charles Gates, DTM contestchair@tmdistrict66.org

District 66 Conference Chair Maggie Ruth

CGD Support Roles:

Club Extension Chair Allan Pedin extension@tmdistrict66.org

Club Quality Chair TBA

Club Retention Chair Tanya White – Deyo retention@tmdistrict66.org

Club New Source Research Chair TBA

PRM Team

Webmaster Jovan Adams webmaster@tmdistrict66.org

Newsletter Editor Kristine Vey, DTM d66news@tmdistrict66.org

Social Media Tiffany Tracey

Celebration Committee Chair Jim Kennedy, DTM ipdd@tmdistrict66.org

There is a LOT going on in District 66! Stay “in the know”

Link to D66 website: https://tmdistrict66.org/

Link to D66 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tmdistrict66

Link to the Region 6 FB page, where you will be able to foster community within the Region and exchange events and news. This will empower everybody with the opportunity to interact and gain knowledge from other Districts in this region:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/973067051493465