Join us on Friday Mornings at Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel
Rooted in Purpose, Growing with Vision
Origins of the Palo Alto/University Rotary Club
The Founding of the Palo Alto/University Rotary Club
The catalyst for the chartering of the Palo Alto/University Rotary Club was Ken Kaufman, then a member of the main Palo Alto Rotary Club. Ken envisioned a new kind of Rotary club — one that met over breakfast in a downtown location and served as a bridge between the University Avenue business district, Stanford University, and surrounding neighborhoods. His vision included a club that was more diverse in age, gender, ethnicity, career paths, and vocations than the typical Rotary club of the time.
Ken saw the potential to create a welcoming space that appealed to both emerging leaders and established professionals — a club rooted in the core principles of Rotary but flexible and forward-thinking in its approach. The meeting format broke tradition by eliminating religious rituals and fining as a form of fundraising, opting instead for practices that fostered inclusion and purpose.
In addition to Ken, the key individuals listed in the club’s charter application to Rotary International — forming the nucleus of the founding group — were Ray Bening, Sally Mahoney, Bob Patterson, Bo Smith, and Nora Sweeny.
The Club was officially chartered on June 10, 1988, with 26 charter members.
Ken Kaufman
PAUR @ 35
A New Kind of Rotary Meeting
From the beginning, PAUR distinguished itself through its service activities, innovative programs, and intentional recruitment strategies — all designed to further the fundamental purposes of Rotary in a more imaginative and inclusive way.
At the start of every meeting, a member shares their “My Rotary Story” — a heartfelt reflection on what drew them to PAUR and what keeps them engaged. These heartfelt stories highlight the personal connections and shared purpose that define our membership, reinforcing the club’s commitment to service and civic engagement.
The club’s format and culture have attracted energetic, service-minded individuals committed to carrying Rotary’s founding ideals into a changing world.
PAUR members getting ready to serve
Growth, Renewal, and Looking Ahead
Since its founding, PAUR has been marked by continuous self-renewal. In its early years, the club grew rapidly in size. More recently, growth has been purposeful and reflective — focused on preserving our unique identity and values. As members relocate or move on, new individuals bring fresh energy, ideas, and perspectives that keep our work dynamic and relevant.
Now, we are actively looking to grow again — seeking engaged, community-minded individuals who resonate with our values and are eager to contribute. We welcome those who are ready to lead, serve, and build meaningful connections while shaping the future of Rotary in Palo Alto and beyond.
The Palo Alto/University Rotary Club remains true to its founding vision: a Rotary club rooted in purpose, guided by imagination, and connected to the heart of the community — and we invite you to be part of what’s next.
PAUR members at an event
