Like father, like daughter: Meet two generations of Flagler County Rotarians

Palm Coast Observer
Your Town

Throughout her life, Flagler Beach resident Casey Ryan remembers watching her father constantly volunteer and serve others.

Casey Ryan poses with her father, Kent Ryan, after he inducts her into the Rotary Club of Flagler County, which he was president of from 1993 to 1994. Photo by Paige Wilson

"I've always looked up to my dad," she said. "We always nicknamed him Mr. Rotarian. Anywhere we vacationed, and even in our community, he's always wanted to give back and do service above self. So, he's been a great role model."

On Tuesday, Aug. 7, Casey Ryan got to follow in her father's footsteps by being inducted into the Rotary Club of Flagler County. Kent Ryan spoke of his daughter's noteworthy character and heart before officially inducting her into the club he was president of from 1993 to 1994.

"It's an honor; it's a privilege," Casey Ryan said. "I'm really proud to do that."

Kent Ryan is still a Rotarian with the club today, which makes this the first time two generations have been members at once, said club President Cindy Evans.

"It's my privilege, as well as special honor today, to present on behalf of our Rotary Club of Flagler County, the induction of our newest member," Kent Ryan said. "Casey, you are beginning a great adventure in leadership, in friendship and in service to our community."

He went on to challenge his daughter to find someone new, who meets the club's motto of "service above self," to join the club in the next three months.

"Now, working with Halifax Health- Hospice and Home Health, I'm able to live in the community and work in the community, so I'm really excited to give back to the community," she said.