A resident of Reading, Pennsylvania, has been recognized for her significant contributions to empowering women and girls in need. Suzanne Cody has received the Paul Harris Fellow designation and the inaugural People of Action Award from the West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club. These honors reflect Cody’s leadership in the annual Help a Girl Out campaign, which has positively impacted low-income women and girls in Berks and Schuylkill counties.
As the director of business development at Muhlenberg Greene Architects in Wyomissing, Cody co-founded the grassroots initiative alongside Alison Pakradooni. The campaign focuses on collecting and distributing menstrual hygiene products and diapers to assist those in need. Gail Landis, public image director for Rotary District 7430, praised Cody for her unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of women and girls in the region. “Through her outstanding leadership in establishing the Help a Girl Out initiative, Suzanne has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of women and girls,” Landis stated.
The Paul Harris Fellow designation honors individuals who align with the humanitarian goals of Rotary. Deb Brubaker, foundation director, emphasized that the People of Action Award recognizes leaders who make a positive community impact and embody the Rotarian value of service above self. “A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because of the efforts of Suzanne Cody,” Brubaker remarked.
Cody received the awards during a recent ceremony at the Berks YR Club in Wyomissing, presented by Mary Cook, district governor of Rotary District 7430. In her acceptance speech, Cody expressed gratitude to the club members for their support and the honor bestowed upon her. “This honor will sustain me on the hard days, the long days, and the tired days,” she said. “It refills my glass, while I in turn fill the glass of others.”
With the presentation of the Paul Harris Fellowship, Cody joins a distinguished group of individuals recognized globally for their commitment to the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.” Gail Landis noted that Rotary Clubs consist of members striving to improve lives and create lasting change in communities worldwide. Rotary’s core focus areas include promoting peace, combating disease, providing clean water and sanitation, supporting education, saving mothers and children, fostering local economic growth, and protecting the environment.
“The recognition of Suzanne Cody aligns with these humanitarian objectives and underscores the impact of dedicated community leaders,” Landis added. Cody’s work exemplifies the difference that committed individuals can make in their communities, highlighting the importance of initiatives that promote dignity and essential support for those in need.
