Rotary District 6880 has unanimously elected Penny Hughey as its District Governor Nominee, positioning the longtime Gulf Coast leader to help shape the future of Rotary across the southern half of Alabama.

The election took place during the Annual Multi-District Conference held Memorial Day weekend in Opelika, a news release said.

In her new leadership role, Hughey will work with district leaders to support membership development, leadership training and community service initiatives throughout the district.

Rotary District 6880 includes 46 Rotary clubs spanning from the Montgomery metropolitan area to the Alabama Gulf Coast and serves approximately 1,800 Rotarians committed to community service and humanitarian efforts around the world.

District leaders said Hughey's election reflects Rotary's focus on innovative leadership and continued growth throughout South Alabama. As District Governor Nominee, she will help strengthen local clubs, encourage new ideas, support member engagement and promote Rotary's mission across the region.

“Penny is a vital part of our district's Rotary evolution,” said incoming District Governor Steve Weaver in the release. “As district leaders look for innovative ways to share the incredible work Rotary accomplishes both locally and globally, Penny's leadership will be instrumental in welcoming new members and helping our district continue to grow and thrive.”

Leaders within the district believe Hughey will help foster a responsive Rotary culture that connects with communities while encouraging more people to experience the organization's emphasis on service, fellowship and leadership. Her election comes as Rotary continues efforts to expand local service projects, support global humanitarian initiatives and strengthen membership among clubs of all sizes.

Hughey is already a familiar figure in Rotary leadership throughout South Alabama. She previously served as president of the Rotary Club of Gulf Shores Orange Beach after serving as the club's membership director. During her tenure, the club experienced a fourfold increase in membership. In 2023, she was recognized for her service and leadership by being named Rotarian of the Year.

Her Rotary leadership continued to expand in 2025 when she was appointed assistant district governor for Area 11. Throughout her service, Hughey has built a reputation for strengthening organizations, developing relationships and engaging new members in meaningful community service.

Outside Rotary, Hughey has played a significant role in leadership development efforts along Alabama's Gulf Coast. During her time with the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, she created and developed several leadership initiatives, including the Coastal Alabama Leadership League, known as CALL, and Junior Leadership of Coastal Alabama. She also helped establish and lead Lower Alabama Young Professionals, an organization focused on cultivating future civic and business leaders.

Drawing from that experience, Hughey hopes to create additional opportunities for young professionals to become involved in Rotary while exploring leadership, networking and community service opportunities.

Hughey currently serves as director of community development for Lee Charities Inc., where she works with nonprofit organizations throughout Baldwin County to strengthen their capacity and expand their impact. Through that role, she helps organizations better serve local residents while reflecting Rotary's guiding principle of "Service Above Self."

Her dedication to service predates her Rotary involvement. While earning her undergraduate degree at Presbyterian College, she embraced the institution's motto, Dum Vivimus Servimus, Latin for "While We Live, We Serve." The philosophy has remained a cornerstone of her personal and professional life and has guided a career focused on leadership, community development and service.

“I am honored to be elected to this position and excited for the opportunities ahead,” Hughey said. “I look forward to strengthening membership, expanding service opportunities, and helping Rotary continue to make a meaningful difference in communities across our district.”

Rotary District 6880 encourages individuals interested in community service, leadership development and professional connections to learn more about the organization. With clubs serving communities from Montgomery to the Alabama Gulf Coast, the district offers opportunities for people of all backgrounds and professions to connect, lead, serve and grow through fellowship and community engagement.