Rotary Mottos

ROTARY MOTTOS

Every successful business or organization has a motto and Rotary is no different. A motto is like a mini mission statement, or a short positive phrase that encompasses the group’s beliefs.

Rotarians developed the first motto in 1911. It said, “He profits most who serves his fellows best.” Some Rotary clubs didn’t use this motto because they felt Rotary’s purpose was more about service than self. In 1950, RI adopted a new motto that was a compromise of both views. The new phrase was, “He profits most who serves best and service above self.” That one doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, does it?

Finally, in 1989, the motto was shortened to “Service Above Self.” This is still our motto today, because it best explains our philosophy of unselfish volunteer work. (Besides, by 1989 women were in the club and that “he” stuff didn’t work anymore.)