A thank you to hundreds of volunteers

At the 2026 District 42 Conference, there was both celebration and a sense of sadness that 72 years of achievements, comradeship and joy were coming to an end.

For me, it was bittersweet. Circle of Gold began in one club in 2003 and has grown into a district-wide phenomenon, helping participants become better speakers, evaluators, and leaders.  

On the last night of the 2026 Conference, I stood in front of a room full of Toastmasters and asked, “Please stand if you have participated in Circle of Gold.”

Nearly everyone in the room rose to their feet. They represented countless volunteers:  coordinators, feedback volunteers, contestants and participants who have contributed to COG in the past 23 years. Members have grown and benefited from the experience at the club, area, division and district.

Thank you to every participant and volunteer for sharing your talents, your experience and your insights!

Did you know that D42 Circle of Gold is unique in the world as a District initiative?

Circle of Gold is not about winning. It is peer mentoring, helping each other gain confidence while we improve and hone our speaking skills. The gold is the gift we give to the audience and to each other.

The current District 42 Circle of Gold Core Team is:

• Laura Chambers, COG Chair,
• Nandini Venkatesan, COG Feedback Leader, and
• Val Erickson COG Promoter.

All the COG core team are leaders, mentors and speech champions who support the Toastmasters International values of Integrity, Respect, Service and Excellence.

Laura Chambers, DTM, D42 Circle of Gold Chair

“As an avid competitor and contest junkie, I first got involved with Circle of Gold in 2018 as a competitor in the Humorous Contest.  The evaluation and advice I received were invaluable.  Imagine coming together with your fellow competitors in an environment of safety and trust to showcase your speech and talents and receive feedback from the best evaluators in District 42. What an amazing experience!  …  It is now my honor to be part of the Circle of Gold team to help other Toastmasters polish their skills.”  

Nandini Venkatesan, DTM, D42 Circle of Gold Feedback Leader

“At a Circle of Gold, a few hours of helping can spark a lifetime of confidence for another Toastmaster. Every level of a Circle of Gold is a chance to inspire growth, offer effective feedback, and create a space where speakers feel supported and able to shine. The learning, laughter, and personal growth along the way make the experience truly unforgettable.”

Val Erickson, DTM, Circle of Gold Promoter

“COG has changed the way I write and practice presentations, especially in the International Speech contest speeches.  Instead of the typical evaluation one receives for a prepared speech, the COG targets specific areas that have elevated not only my presentation skills but also the way I write my speeches now as well.  I was a member of the original club where a few members met outside of the regular meeting to ‘workshop’ and practice our speeches. It is exactly how Ralph Smedley started Toastmasters in 1924 and has since left his legacy.  COG didn’t replace my meetings, nor was it meant to. Instead, it augmented the experience, elevating my speech writing and delivery skills.” 

Darlene Davies, DTM Circle of Gold Founder/Advisor

My dream is that the learning,  growth, and comradeship of Circle of Gold will thrive beyond District 42. 

Imagine if, because of you, every member in your club, area, or division would have the opportunity to experience the excitement and benefits of Circle of Gold. You can find manuals on the D42 website to assist you.

Will you reach out and share your experience and knowledge with your new District?

Thank you to all who volunteered in the past 23 years and to those who will reach out next year! You are all making a difference.