The meeting began with a patriotic song and the four-way test, followed by an inspirational poem by Barbara about the power of saying hello. President Dawn welcomed guests, including Nate and Marianne Shiff, who were introduced by Rob, and Ed Snyder, introduced by Roy. The meeting acknowledged birthdays, anniversaries, and long-term Rotary member anniversaries.

Club Business:

• Send Hunger Packing Nov. 8 from 9-11 a.m. : Rob Shiff announced that we have collected over $14,500 (40k meals0 but the goal is $17,500 (50k meals.) Donations are encouraged and walk-ins are welcome.
• Slate of Officers for 2026-2027 and updated By Laws were presented by Kathy Waugh. Please see your emails for details.

Rob Shiff receives The Rotary Foundation Distinguished Service Award

The Rotary Foundation Distinguished Service Award is the Foundation’s highest level of recognition for Rotarians and Rotaractors. It honors members who have exhibited exceptional service to the Foundation and who passionately demonstrate the values of Rotary in their districts. 

Today, we gather to recognize an extraordinary individual whose unwavering dedication and commitment to service have made a lasting impact on our community—Rob Shiff. It is a great privilege to present Rob with the Distinguished Services Award.

Rob was born and raised in the charming town of Sandusky, Ohio, a place that holds a fondness for him and his family. No doubt Rob experienced summer days spent boating on Sandusky Bay and exploring the beautiful shores of Lake Erie.

Rob’s remarkable professional achievements begin with over 30 years of experience in the Consumer Products Industries, Rob has consistently showcased his expertise in operations, sales, and management. His impressive resume includes serving as Vice President of Operations for Radius Garden, where he transformed processes to drive significant sales growth, particularly with major retailers like Amazon and Home Depot. Under his leadership, the company experienced a remarkable record of shipping efficiency—99% of orders shipped within a day.

At Shar Music Products, Rob directed operations for one of the leading suppliers of classical bowed string instruments in the nation, innovating warehouse functions and enhancing the customer experience through meticulous order management.

Additionally, Rob served three dedicated years on the board of Travis Pointe, where he successfully took on the role of Vice President all three years. His strategic vision during that time helped shape the club into a thriving and welcoming environment for all its members.

Above all, what we celebrate today is Rob’s spirit of service, his leadership qualities, and his determination to empower those around him. His combination of professional expertise and deep-rooted commitment to community service sets a powerful example for us all.

• Rob joined the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor on November 12, 2008. During his tenure, we have all had the chance to witness Rob’s contributions firsthand. As Community Service Director and interim Club Service Director, we could see how passionately he advocated for those in need. Through his leadership as Committee Chair and now as Club Liaison for the Send Hunger Packing program, Rob has tirelessly worked to fight food insecurity for our local children. His participation in various one-day projects, such as Adopt-A-Highway and tree planting initiatives, reflects his belief in the power of community service and his commitment to making our surroundings more beautiful and sustainable. Working alongside Rotary colleagues, Rob was also instrumental in ensuring an accessible platform for remote Rotarians that considered technical and financial best practices. He appreciates the value of mentorship and an inclusive environment that listens to all voices – this was essential as a member of the strategic planning committee in 2024-2025.

 Additional community service projects for RCAA include: 

• Planning, Organizing and directing community build projects with Tiny Homes in Detroit and Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley  2018 – 2019
• Committee Chair – Annual Golf and Tennis Outing Fundraiser – Raised over $45K for youth and community organizations   2011-2012
• Committee Member – Rotate Your Food – Annual food drive to support Food Gatherer’s, 2009-present

Hundreds of members worldwide have been nominated for this award over the years, and up to 50 recipients are selected annually. This award illustrates Rob’s continuing dedication to the Foundation programs that change people’s lives. Rob, thank you for your unwavering dedication and inspiring passion. You truly embody the spirit of Rotary, making our community a better place for everyone. Please join us in congratulating Rob Shiff on receiving the Distinguished Services Award!

Packard Health Growth and the Impact of Medicaid Cuts: Ray Rion, Medical Director

Dr. Raymond Rion, Medical Director of Packard Health, presented on the organization’s role as a vital safety net provider in Washtenaw County. He highlighted Packard Health’s growth from its founding in 1973 to its current status as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), serving 15,500 patients  annually with a diverse range of services including primary care (41,439 visits), behavioral health and addiction treatment (7,480 visits). Dr. Ryan discussed Packard’s financial stability and partnerships with health systems, while noting concerns about potential changes to Medicaid funding that could impact their ability to serve low-income patients.