A new chapter is beginning for Lions District 16L as Dr. Sarah Taylor-Deak takes the reins.
The new district governor succeeds Governor Terry Rosiak. With deep Lion roots and a servant leadership philosophy, Deak is ready to guide the district in empowering others and expanding service.
“I am honored and humbled to become the next district governor of District 16L,” said Deak. “I am honestly excited for this opportunity to do something for which I have been trained. I am ready to serve, and honored that you have asked me to step forward.”
Deak’s path to leadership has been decades in the making. A lifelong member of a Lions family, she credits her late father, Louis, for instilling the values of service. Years ago, she was on a trajectory toward district leadership, but chose to pause in order to raise her children and pursue a doctorate in organizational leadership.
“When Terry asked me to step up, I thought about it, talked with my family and was ready,” Deak recalled. “For me to come back and step up is natural to me, and for me, service is in my blood.”
Deak’s vision for District 16L – which encompasses clubs in nine South Jersey counties that include Voorhees, Berlin, Gibbsboro and Gloucester Township – is to strengthen participation and enthusiasm among its members while emphasizing Lions Club International’s core initiatives: sight, pediatric cancer, the environment, hunger, disaster relief and diabetes.
“It’s hard to pinpoint just a few top goals because all of the goals are so important,” Deak noted. “But I want all the Lions to enjoy being Lions and enjoy service.”
She also acknowledged the legacy left by Rosiak.
“Terry did so much for the district,” Deak acknowledged. “She highlighted clubs that were doing things well and helped those that were struggling. She showed us how to use the portal and made sure we had training often.”
Among Deak’s area of focus will be elevating Lion women and families.
“We are hoping to host a highlight brunch in March for women in Lions,” she said. “We are also looking into an emerging leaders workshop to bring new and upcoming Lions into leadership roles.”
Deak’s theme for the year captures her mission: Inspire Action. Cultivate Leaders. Build a Better Tomorrow.
“It reflects my desire for inspiration nurturing current and future leaders and focusing on long-term community transformation,” she explained.
For Rosiak, the past year has been one of transformation and growth.
“Our 16L District had the most membership growth in the state,” Rosiak proudly pointed out. “That means more Lions in service, which is a significant accomplishment for our communities.”
Rosiak emphasized that flexibility and adaptability were critical to reaching new members.
“Many clubs resist change,” she stated. “Our lives are more complicated, and not everyone can attend meetings while juggling work, school activities and other commitments. Introducing Zoom meetings or encouraging members to bring their children – such as Lions Cubs – can make it easier for parents to join.”
Under Rosiak’s leadership, the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club blossomed.
“From the first time I met them in a Cherry Hill diner with PDG (past district governor) Donna Freidel … they amazed me,” she recalled. “They identified what their community needed and proceeded to fulfill that need. Their officers are dedicated to strengthening and expanding their club.
“I know they will be one of the largest clubs in District 16L within five years.”
Rosiak also reflected on a standout moment that defined her term: the statewide Day of Service on April 26.
“The three district governors – myself, district governor Barbara Corsaro from 16N and Rogel Baptista from 16J – asked every club to perform service on that day,” she explained. “It was a huge success.”
At the state Convention in May, Lions came together once again to pack more than 350 Blessing Bags for the homeless and underserved in Atlantic City. As she passes the torch, Rosiak has advice for Deak.
“To have fun and enjoy the journey,” Rosiak emphasized. “She will meet tremendous people as she visits their clubs. Each club is its own entity, and you learn a great deal by visiting. Enjoy the friendships she will develop during her year.”
