FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - A longtime Fort St. John lawyer and community volunteer is taking on a new leadership role with the Rotary Club of Fort St. John Sunrise.
Steven Cope has officially begun his term as president of the Rotary Sunrise Club for the 2026-27 year.
Cope, who has practiced law in Fort St. John for nearly 30 years, joined the Rotary Club in 2004. He has been involved in numerous fundraising initiatives and leadership development opportunities over the past two decades.
As president, Cope says one of his primary goals is to establish a long-term vision for the organization rather than focusing solely on a single Rotary year.
“This is a transition year,” Cope said. “I want to create a vision that extends beyond one Rotary year. By developing a three-year plan, we can ensure future club leaders build on each other’s work instead of starting over.”
Among his priorities are strengthening club membership, attracting younger and more diverse members, encouraging participation in Rotary Fellowships, supporting the development of a Rotaract club in Fort St. John, and positioning the organization to earn the Rotary District Club Excellence Award.
Cope says adapting to changing community demographics will be an important part of the club’s future success.
“Our community has changed, and Rotary must continue changing with it. We want people from every background and every stage of life to know there is a place for them in Rotary,” said Cope.
The incoming president also hopes to strengthen collaboration between Fort St. John’s two Rotary clubs while building stronger partnerships with local businesses, organizations and community groups.
The Rotary Club of Fort St. John Sunrise is involved in a variety of local and international service projects and community fundraising efforts. Cope’s term runs through June 2027.