It was a busy and successful summer for Fountain Hills Toastmasters, which was recently recognized once again for achieving the President’s Distinguished Club status for the 2024-2025 year.

This is the highest level of club recognition, according to a press release, given only to clubs that demonstrate excellence in education, membership, training and administration.

Additionally, the Fountain Hills Toastmasters Club was honored for being one of 13 clubs among all 165 in Arizona to achieve all 10 of the annual Toastmasters Distinguished Club Program goals.

This requires having a certain number of members complete various education levels, retaining or adding club members, having club officers attend district training and ensuring members in good standing pay their dues on schedule.

Being a “perfect 10” also puts the club in the running as District Club of the Year, the release said.

New officers

This summer also marked the installation of the Fountain Hills Toastmasters Executive Officers for 2025-2026.

They include Club President Kristin Milashoski, Vice President of Education Kathy Koultourides, Vice President of Public Relations Joanne Colella, Vice President of Membership Tricia Stover, Secretary Richelle Hopkins, Treasurer and Sergeant at Arms Tom Lindsey and Sergeant at Arms Peter Gallagher.

Fountain Hills Toastmasters is one of a global network of clubs with Toastmasters International, an educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills in a supportive, constructive environment. Through a learn-by-doing approach, members deliver prepared speeches, respond to impromptu questions called “Table Topics” and receive constructive feedback to build confidence and improve communication in every aspect of life and work – all in a fun, social setting rather than a classroom, where they can proceed at their own pace.

For those needing to make a presentation, ace an interview, give a special toast for an upcoming celebration or simply enjoy the chance to share stories about personal life experiences, Fountain Hills Toastmasters transforms the way one listens, speaks, leads and connects with the world.

Whether one is looking to overcome public speaking fears, sharpen their leadership skills or simply have fun developing all levels of conversation, the club offers a welcoming community that is there to help.

Members come from diverse backgrounds, from young professionals to experienced managers to those seeking personal growth. Members have access to free resources, how-to videos, contests and well-structured one-hour meetings where everyone has the opportunity to fulfill a role and learn new things.

The Fountain Hills Toastmasters Club meets on the first and third Mondays of each month at 11 a.m. and every Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are held in the upstairs conference room at the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce, 16837 E. Palisades Blvd. in Fountain Hills.

Guests are always welcome to come and get a feel for what Toastmasters can offer. Participants should plan to arrive 15 minutes early to do a quick meet-and-greet before the meeting begins.

For more information, visit https://fountainhills.toastmastersclubs.org/ and follow Fountain Hills Toastmasters on Facebook.