Tom Kelchner, Our 2025-2026 District Governor
From his grandfather to charismatic President John F. Kennedy, Tom Kelchner takes inspiration from personal and global leaders. The common denominators among his heroes were their altruistic and modestly humble approach to the world. Actions speak louder than words. He has shown his belief in big action with big rewards throughout his career.
Tom is a proud member of the Rotary Club of Baytown where he served as club president and multiple leadership roles.
He is a 33-year veteran of public education with the bulk of that served in Dallas Independent School District. He has worked in nearly every level of education, from a teacher to assistant principal, dean of instruction, principal, and director positions. He has served students at all levels, including elementary, middle, high school, and special education. The heartbeat of his pursuits has always been scholarship and learning.
Tom and has served on numerous school, district, and community committees working with students, parents, board trustees, superintendents, executive-level management, and community leaders from all walks of life.
District Governor Tom was invited as a guest speaker on the "Career Can Do" Podcast to share his passion about Rotary. This episode is a powerful reminder that service isn’t just noble - it’s necessary. And joining an organization like Rotary might just be the start of something much bigger than yourself.
What if making the world a better place was more than just a dream - and became your purpose?
Dr. Tom Kelchner joins Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do to share how a lifelong commitment to service led him from classrooms to community leadership, and now, to his newest role as District Governor for Rotary District 5890.
After 33 years in public education, Tom found a new mission through Rotary - one that aligned perfectly with his passion for helping others. “Why do I serve? Because it’s needed,” he says. For Tom, service isn’t a side project. It’s a way of life.
Rotary’s reach is massive, with 1.4 million members worldwide and initiatives that span from eradicating polio to addressing food insecurity and mental health. But the power of Rotary, Tom explains, is also local. Whether it’s mentoring students, helping veterans, or improving access to clean water, the impact is real and personal.
Tom also highlights Rotary’s work with youth through programs like Interact and youth exchange, showing how service can start early and last a lifetime. Under his leadership, he hopes to grow membership, amplify support for veterans and trafficking awareness, and make Rotary more visible to the wider community.
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Or Click Here to hear the Podcast on our Rotary District 5890 YouTube Channel