You Did It. We See It.
There is something special about going above and beyond.
Not because someone asked you to. Not because it was required. But because you chose to — to help, to lead, to make a difference.
And I want you to know this: We see it.
In District 42, one of the most meaningful ways we recognize that spirit is through the District Citation Award, one of the highest honours in our District. This award celebrates members who don’t just say “yes”… but say, “yes, and what else can I do?”
Recipients receive a plaque and a place on our District Citation Banner, but more importantly, they receive something deeper: our gratitude, our respect, and our recognition. To maintain its high standard, this award is not presented every year. In fact, we haven’t presented it since 2019. And we all remember those years…
When “You’re on mute” was probably the most common phrase in our meetings. But through those challenging times, District 42 didn’t just continue; it stayed strong. Why? Because of the members who stepped up. Members who adapted. Members who supported others, quietly, consistently, and wholeheartedly.
This year, we received 11 nominations. That alone tells a powerful story. And for that reason, the Past District Leaders Committee made a special decision to recognize multiple recipients for their outstanding contributions at the District level.
Our 2026 District Citation Award Recipients:
- Marg Ustupski,
- Ron MacTavish,
- Vesna Ivkovic
Let me tell you why they are selected for the District 42 Citation Award
Marg Ustupski
If there’s a need in the District, Marg is already there — likely with a plan, a checklist, and a training session ready to go! For three years, she led the Club Retention Committee, building a strong support system for clubs, officers, and coaches.
She helped establish the Leadership Training Committee, enhanced training materials, and even trained the trainers — multiplying her impact across the district. Have you attended a one-hour Club Officer Training during lunch? That flexibility exists because of Marg. Today, she continues as Education Committee Chair, supporting Pathways and offering monthly training.
Marg, thank you for your leadership and lasting impact.
Ron MacTavish
Many of us came to know Ron during the online years — when virtual backgrounds were impressive… and unmuting yourself was a skill! Ron led the way in developing best practices for virtual meetings across the District.
Through training, mentoring, and club visits, he helped maintain connection and energy when it was most needed. His mentorship extended beyond our District, attracting members from around the world and helping rebuild struggling clubs. He also contributed to District Conference workshops and supported members on their DTM journey.
Ron, your leadership helped keep our District strong when it mattered most.
Vesna Ivkovic
Let me ask you, have you ever read the Monthly Dispatch? Did you at least open it? That connection, the updates, the stories, the opportunities, that’s Vesna. For the past three years, she has been the driving force behind collecting, editing, and sharing information across the District.
She has also supported conference promotion and maintained the District website, keeping everything current, accessible, and connected. She is behind the scenes, but essential. She maintained an open communication channel between the District and all members.
Vesna, thank you for keeping our District informed and connected.
Here is my message to All Members. This is more than an award.
It’s a reminder.
A reminder that your effort matters.
Your initiative matters.
Your contribution matters.
When you step up…
When you support others…
When you go beyond what is expected…
You will be seen.
You will be appreciated.
And yes, you may be recognized.
So keep going.
Keep saying “yes”…
and maybe even, “what else can I do?”
Because that’s how we grow.
That’s how we lead.
And that’s how we make District 42 stronger — together.