Bill Mowbray

PRESIDENT

My Rotary Story

Service has been an important part of my life for many years. Before Rotary, I spent ten years as a member of the Madison Downtown Jaycees, where I came to appreciate the idea that service to others is one of the most meaningful ways we can spend our time.

When my time with the Jaycees came to an end, I found a new service home in Rotary. I joined Madison West Middleton Rotary in 1990 and quickly discovered an organization that brought together two things I value deeply: helping others and building meaningful relationships.

I had the privilege of serving as our club's president during the 1994–1995 Rotary year, and more than three decades later, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as president once again.

Why I've Stayed

Over the years, Rotary has given me countless opportunities to serve people both here in our community and around the world. But one of the things that has kept me involved for more than 35 years is the fellowship.

Rotary has introduced me to people with an incredible variety of backgrounds, professions, interests, and personalities. Many have become good friends — people I likely never would have met otherwise.

One of the roles I've especially enjoyed has been chairing our Friendship Committee. Whether a member is celebrating a birthday or marriage, welcoming a child, facing a hospitalization, or experiencing the loss of someone close to them, I believe it's important that our Rotary family shows up for one another.

A Little About Me

I grew up in North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and took a somewhat unconventional path to Madison. Along the way, I worked at my father's gas station and spent several years working as a switchman for the Soo Line Railroad.

I eventually returned to college, earned an associate degree, and then moved to Madison to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where I graduated in 1978 with a degree in psychology. I went on to build a career in financial services and have spent many years working with clients in the Madison and Middleton area.

Outside of work and Rotary, I'm a longtime car enthusiast and particularly enjoy auto racing and spending time at Road America. Most importantly, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Alice, our family, and our grandchildren.