We are Rotary

Celebrating the Life of David B. Smith

Longtime Tustin-area resident and community member David B. Smith passed away on June 22 at the age of 87. David dedicated more than 43 years to the Rotary Club of Tustin-Santa Ana, including serving as Club President, and was involved with numerous organizations throughout the Orange County community. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, friendship, and commitment to serving others.

Friends, family, and members of the community are invited to join in celebrating David’s life.

Saturday, September 26, 2026

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1221 Wass Street, Tustin

11:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Celebration of Life

12:00 p.m. — Luncheon

1:00 p.m. — Special “Let Go & Goodbye” Remembrance Gathering

PLEASE RSVP if you plan to attend the luncheon so the family can plan accordingly.

davidbsmithcelebration@gmail.com

Rotary District 5320 Governor

What a wonderful night at this year’s Miss Tustin Scholarship Competition! The entire evening was beautifully done, and kudos to Jen Kohlenberger and her committee for once again putting together such an impressive event. The evening was also a little bittersweet as Miss Tustin 2025, Jenelle Huerta, prepared to pass the crown after an incredible year representing our community. We were especially touched during Jenelle’s look back at her year when two of the highlights she mentioned had a special Rotary connection: Read Across America, when she joined us at Heideman Elementary School, and Lobsterfest, complete with a photo from the event! It was wonderful to see our club’s activities included among her favorite memories as Miss Tustin. Congratulations to Samantha Arroyo, who was crowned Miss Tustin 2026! Samantha holds a special place in our Rotary family, as she was our club-sponsored contestant last year and went on to become first runner-up. How exciting to see her return this year and take home the crown! And we couldn’t be prouder of Melody Chavez, our club-sponsored contestant this year, who earned a place on the Miss Tustin Court, along with Veronica Chapman, sponsored by Tustin Area Man and Woman of the Year. Congratulations to all three young women! One of our favorite moments came after the competition when Jonathan and I went to congratulate Melody. She thanked us for Rotary’s support and then told us she plans to come back and compete again next year—and asked if Rotary would sponsor her

Our August 13 Rotary meeting was all about supporting and encouraging young people in our community! 🎓🔬🎹

We were pleased to welcome Paul Pooler, Assistant Director of the Achievement Institute for STEM Scholars (AISS), who shared with us the important work this Santa Ana-based organization is doing to prepare high-achieving, economically disadvantaged students for college and careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

AISS provides students with a two-year program that goes far beyond the classroom, offering hands-on STEM experiences, mentoring, college preparation, life and professional skills, networking opportunities, and exposure to STEM careers. It was inspiring to learn how they are helping students turn their interests and abilities into opportunities for their futures.

We also welcomed Melody Chavez, the Rotary Club of Tustin–Santa Ana’s sponsored candidate for Miss Tustin! 👑 Melody shared a little about herself and treated us to a video showcasing her talent—playing the piano. 🎹

We wish Melody the very best as she takes the stage at the Miss Tustin Scholarship Competition this Saturday! We’re proud to be cheering her on! 💙💛

A great meeting highlighting education, opportunity, talent, and some pretty impressive young people in our community!

Rotary District 5320 Governor