The Kiwanis Club of Alexandria gathered for the installation of our new officers and Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 year on Oct. 1.
The evening began with Judge Greg Beard serving as our Master of Ceremonies. Mary Byrd, 2025–2026 President, officially called the meeting to order.
During the evening, Mary presented Ruby Pin Awards recognizing members who recruited new members.
– Gary “Bucket” Trotter was recognized for recruiting 10 new members.
– Tommy Joe Phillips was recognized for recruiting 5 new members. Tommy was unable to attend the evening.
Mary also selected Dr. Jeems White as the 2025–2026 Kiwanian of the Year, recognizing his dedication and service to our club.
In her closing remarks as president, Mary reflected on the accomplishments of the past year. Both of our major fundraisers—the Pancake Breakfast and Crawfish Boil—saw increased profits, helping strengthen our ability to support children and our community.
Our membership remained strong, with an overall stability with new members despite losing some longtime members because of declining health and, sadly, the passing of one of our members.
The past year also brought an exciting milestone for LSUA and Kiwanis. Dr. Jeems White made a financial donation, and Gracymay Byrd, President and a student at LSUA, dedicated an entire summer to the hard work of recruiting students and helping establish Circle K International at LSUA (CKI) at LSU Alexandria in the fall of 2025. This was especially significant because 1989 was the last time a CKI club had been established at LSUA.
There was so much dedication, hard work, teamwork, and volunteering behind everything accomplished this past year. None of it would have been possible without the commitment of our members and everyone who gave their time and talents to make a difference.
Installation of the 2026–2027 Leadership Team
Lt. Governor Kim Futrell of Winfield, officially installed the new Officers and Board of Directors for 2026–2027.
Officers:
– President: Jerry Edwards
– President-Elect: Kerry Rogers
– Past President: Mary Byrd
– Vice President: Grey Williams
– Treasurer: John Flynn
– Secretary: Darren Green
Board of Directors:
– Tommy Joe Phillips
– Dee Drell
– Jim Leggit
– Gary “Bucket” Trotter
– Susie Drell
– Keith Hillman
Passing the Gavel
Mary Byrd officially passed the gavel, with a blue bow, to our new President, Jerry Edwards.
Jerry spoke with excitement about the year ahead and shared his hopes for continued growth and success for the club. He expressed his gratitude to everyone involved and looks forward to increasing the impact of Kiwanis in our community.
As a special recognition of her year of service, Jerry presented now Past President Mary Byrd with a Club President plaque, which she was very grateful to receive.
Following the closing prayer, President Jerry Edwards officially adjourned the meeting.
Congratulations to our new Officers and Board of Directors! We wish President Jerry Edwards and the entire 2026–2027 leadership team a successful year.
Together, through teamwork, service, and dedication, we continue to serve the children and families of our community.
Kiwanis Club of Alexandria — Serving the Children of Our Community.