Meet the Rotarians! This is the 2022 issue of Rotarian Spotlight.
In an effort to bridge the gap between Cal Rotaract and Rotary, Rotarian Spotlights is a new feature that helps members get to know Rotarians more. Read about Rotarians, their service passions, and career advice below!
If you’re interested in learning more about Cal Rotaractors and alumni, check out Humans of Cal Rotaract under the membership tab.
Lewis Ames
LinkedIn | Facebook | [email protected]
What made you decide to become a Rotarian?
The opportunity to attack global warming crisis and combat the existential threat.
What are your service passions and how has Rotary helped you achieve your service goals?
Implement local and regional policies to reduce green house gases.
Describe your professional background.
I developed rail transit all over the US: light rail, streetcars, regional rail systems. This led me to understand the challenge of the climate crisis.
When and how did you realize that you wanted to pursue this career?
The environmental movement pointed me to rail transit: reduce air pollution, help working people save money by having a transit alternative; take down the oil companies, make cities more livable... that's a great career.
What is some advice for Rotaractors on transitioning from university to life after college?
Meet as many people as possible; definitely pursue and engage some environmental advocacy for at least 2-3 years and study the big picture of what and who is cause environmental damage, what are the solutions that are needed including those that are not safe or acceptable but may be necessary. Use this involvement and asking questions to build your sense of being in the world. Don't worry about taking it slow but continue to future and expand your environmental advocacy awareness over time - something like a hobby of becoming you in the world. Look for at least one mentor, preferably as many as you can juggle. Keep a journal of how life is being experienced; make short entries. Be patient, read a lot. If you can, read contemporary novels, some science history, but the New Yorker and Atlantic for sure.
What's the most beautiful place you've seen or want to visit?
North Cascades National Park
If you could trade lives with any person or celebrity for a day, who would it be and why?
The mayor of a great city, London, Berlin, Paris, Havana, Mexico City, Shanghai
Do you have any questions, comments, or concerns?
The world needs you to do your best, learn to be you over time, for men learn kindness and empathy but men and women you will have to kick ass. We are in a fight for our life.