Sara Hughes Makes History as First Woman President of Marianna Rotary Club

By Shelia Mader

In a moment of quiet but powerful history, Sara Applewhite Hughes recently became the first woman president of the Marianna Rotary Club, marking a new chapter in the organization’s proud legacy of service. While she is the first to hold the gavel, she is quick to point out she was not the first woman inducted. That honor belongs to Carmen Smith, who joined in October 2015. Hughes followed just a few months later in January 2016.

“Carmen opened the door,” Hughes said. “And I was proud to walk through it.”

Hughes’ journey to Rotary was shaped by the examples of two community pillars, Richard Hand and Vern Williams, both former Rotary presidents who inspired her with their passion and commitment.

“They wore their past president pins with such pride,” Hughes recalled. “They truly lived by Rotary’s motto: ‘Service Above Self.’ They were ethical, kind, and always spoke with enthusiasm about the programs, the relationships, and the difference Rotary made. It just sounded like something I wanted to be a part of.”

That spark led to Hughes' induction, which was sponsored by none other than the General Jim Hart. “That meant so much to me,” Hughes said, pausing with emotion. “At that time, there had only been one woman, and I didn’t expect it. But for General Hart to think that highly of me, it’s something I’ll never forget.”

Taking the helm as president brought its own wave of emotions.

“Amazing, amazing, amazing,” Hughes said, describing the moment her name was called. “I was very surprised. I wasn’t expecting that.”

Now leading the club, Hughes hopes to continue the strong traditions that have defined Marianna Rotary for decades.

“My role is to continue to be positive, to strengthen the relationships among our members, and to keep finding ways to serve our community,” she said. “Our members have been so welcoming and inclusive, and I want to keep that spirit alive.”

Under her leadership, the club continues its tradition of community impact. Regular contributions are made to the Chipola College Foundation, including funding a Rotary scholarship. The club also donates to the Rotary PolioPlus Program, part of Rotary International’s global mission to eradicate polio, and supports the Rotary Youth Camp, a program designed for children with disabilities.

“The camp in Tallahassee is structured specifically so that kids with disabilities can experience the outdoors and the joy of summer just like any other child,” Hughes said.

The club also lends a helping hand beyond state lines. This past year, the Marianna Rotary raised funds for a small North Carolina Rotary club that had been devastated by hurricanes.

Closer to home, the Marianna Rotary joins forces each year with the Jackson Hospital Foundation to host a wine tasting event, helping raise funds for local healthcare needs.

“From president to president, the focus might shift a little,” Hughes explained, “but the heart of Rotary stays the same, giving back.”

Hughes was also quick to credit one of her biggest supporters, her husband, Don Hughes. “Rotary is such a big part of his life, and he’s always been there for me with guidance and encouragement. He’s a walking Rotary encyclopedia,” she laughed. “Along with Richard Hand and Vern Williams, Don’s pride in Rotary has always been an inspiration.”

As she looks to the year ahead, Hughes carries with her the legacy of those who came before, and the responsibility of paving the way for those still to come.

“I want to help make our Rotary experience better and better,” she said. “This club means something. It changes lives. And I’m honored to be a part of that.”