1. How long have you been in Rotary?

I joined Rotary around 2001 not really knowing what it was at the time. I was hoping to network in the community since I was new in my career and someone suggested I check it out.

2. My favorite Rotary moments:

In my first month or so as a Rotarian I was roped into being the chair of the Roches-ter Rotary Club’s 2nd annual horse show. I was maybe 21 years old, knew nothing about horses, and was in over my head but in spite of it all we pulled it together and made it work! All contingencies were prepared for except for it snowing on us in the middle of May on the day of the event!

I always enjoy reading to the kids at the local elementary schools and helping with the literacy programs.

I also enjoy any chance I get to have my kids get involved with the hands on work, whether it is for the Senior Visits or weeding the Rotary Gardens.

3. Where I currently live and where I grew up:

I grew up in Dover and still live here! I did live in Rochester for several years but we are back and here to stay.

4. My Hobbies:

Lately, my hobbies have changed a bit due to Covid. I’ve always been a gym rat but now I am doing more outdoor activities like playing tennis or taking hikes with my wife and kids.

5. My Business Profession or Current Working or Non-Working Environment

After starting a career in banking while still in high school, I grew into my role as a Financial Advisor for the last 17 years or so. I work mostly with local families helping them manage their investment portfolios to prepare for or live in retirement.

6. Something my fellow Rotarians don’t know about me:

While in high school, I saw that there was a local bank who was interviewing for an internship position for a high school student. My guidance counselor said “No way Pellman, get back to class!”, but I bought my first suit and tie at Goodwill and showed up on the day of interviews anyway. Somehow I got the chance to meet with the interviewing team, parlayed the unpaid internship into a paying job, and the rest is history! It didn’t exactly pass the 4-Way Test at the time, but it all worked out!

7. Final words: I joined Rotary at first for all the wrong reasons, thinking it was more of a business building program like the Chamber of Commerce. I quickly realized that wasn’t at all what it was about, but I had a few amazing Rotarians take me un-der their wing and show me what “Service Above Self” truly means and I fell in love with it. I don’t know of a better way to help the world in big ways and small while making friends along the way. It has been tricky juggling work, kids, and Rotary during the pandemic.