Rotary Club of Northlakes Toukley In Touch April 2014 | Page 10

THE HISTORY OF PAUL HARRIS
FELLOW RECOGNITION

Above The first Paul Harris Fellow Medallion left, right is a later version

Below various lapel pins and neck ribbons

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ribbons were used with this medallion throughout the years.

Various lapel and neck

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in
their name, of US$1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
It was established in 1957 to show appreciation for and encourage substantial contributions to what was then
the Foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships.
The first Paul Harris Fellows include 1937-38 RI Director Allison G. Brush and longtime RI Treasurer Rufus F.
Chapin, both for donations they made in 1946. Mrs. Adan Vargas was the first woman to receive the recognition, for a gift made in 1953. Mrs. Harry L. Jones was the second, and one of only five people recognized for contributions made in 1957.
Early Paul Harris Fellows received a certificate of recognition. In 1969, the Foundation unveiled the first Paul
Harris Fellow medallion at the RI Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. Japanese metal artist Fiju Tsuda created
the piece under the direction of then-past Foundation Trustee Kyozo Yuasa. Today, Paul Harris Fellows receive
a certificate and pin. They are also eligible to purchase a Paul Harris Fellow medallion.
Rotary Club of Northlakes Toukley

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