On Tuesday 7th July at the Palm Bistro Hua Hin three Rotarians of the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin (RCRHH) were recognised for their 100% contribution to the Rotary Foundation by being awarded with their Paul Harris Fellow certificate and Pin Badge. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation. Rotary established the recognition in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation’s only programme, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships.
The first Paul Harris Fellows included past RI Director Allison G. Brush, who served during the 1937-38 Rotary year, and longtime RI Treasurer Rufus F. Chapin, both for donations made in 1946. Mrs. Adan Vargas was the first woman to receive the recognition, for a gift made in 1953. Mrs. Harry L. Jones was the second, and one of only five people recognised for contributions actually made in that inaugural year. Early Paul Harris Fellows received a certificate of recognition.
In 1969, the Foundation unveiled the first Paul Harris Fellow medallion at the Rotary Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. Japanese metal artist Fiju Tsuda created the piece under the direction of former Foundation Trustee Kyozo Yuasa.
Today, Paul Harris Fellows receive a certificate and pin badge. They are also eligible to buy a Paul Harris Fellow medallion.
The four members of the RCRHH who received the awards were: President Brian Anderson, Rotarian Arnold Ruijs, Rotarian Chris Byrd and PP Paul Grab.
