Insight into the vision, objectives and lessons from our District leadership.

Fellow Optimists,

It is with great excitement and optimism that I welcome you to the 2025–2026 Optimist Year! I am deeply honored to serve as your District Governor for the TexHoma District as we embark on this journey together under the leadership and vision of Optimist International President Thomas W. Kendo Jr., whose theme — “Be the Change” — perfectly captures the spirit of this new year.

To Be the Change means to take bold steps, to think differently, and to lead with purpose. This is our moment to bring new energy and ideas into our organization — to strengthen our clubs, inspire new members, and rebuild our Optimist family stronger than ever before. It’s time for us to think outside the box, to reach out to one another, and to embrace innovation while never losing sight of what makes us who we are: our unwavering commitment to Bringing Out the Best in Kids.

This year, we will focus not only on retention and growth, but on revitalization — rekindling the enthusiasm that has defined Optimism for over a century. We will challenge ourselves to look beyond the way things have always been done and instead ask, “What can we do better?” Together, we will build stronger clubs, create new ones, and nurture the leaders of tomorrow.

Our communities need us more than ever, and the world needs the light of Optimism to shine bright. Let’s continue to spread that light by serving with passion, supporting one another, and remembering that every project, every new member, and every smile we inspire makes a difference.

After all — we are Optimists. We rise to challenges. We lead with hope. We are the change.

Here’s to an amazing 2025–2026 year — one filled with purpose, progress, and positivity. Together, let’s Be the Change that moves Optimist International back to the number one spot in service, spirit, and community impact.

In Optimism,

Dustin M. Fraticelli

District Governor, TexHoma District