Melissa Washburn Elected International Director of Lions Clubs International

By R. Gabriel Villalobos

Melissa Washburn, a longtime Carlsbad resident and dedicated humanitarian, has been elected to the prestigious role of International Director for Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest service organization.

Alongside her, Frankie Davis, another local leader, has been named regional governor, marking a significant moment for New Mexico’s Lions Clubs.

Washburn, a 24-year member of the Lions, was chosen from 18 global candidates for one of six board positions, earning the support of 10,000 Lions members worldwide. Her journey to the international stage began at the club level, where she built a reputation for unwavering service.

“It was never on my bucket list,” Washburn admitted. “But representing New Mexico and Lions worldwide is an honor.”

A Legacy of Service

Founded in 1917, Lions Clubs International operates in over 200 countries, focusing on eight key causes: vision, hunger, humanitarian aid, youth programs, environmental initiatives, pediatric cancer, diabetes awareness, and—newly emphasized—mental health.

The organization’s motto, “We Serve,” reflects its grassroots approach: 100% volunteer-driven, with every dollar going back into communities. Nobody gets paid for their position in the organization.

Washburn’s new role places her on the organization’s global board, where she’ll help shape policies and oversee service initiatives. One of her top priorities? Disaster preparedness.

“Our goal is to get clubs worldwide asking, ‘What if?’” she explained. “If we’re prepared, boots are on the ground within minutes—not weeks.”

Carlsbad’s Lions have already demonstrated this commitment. When wildfires and floods devastated nearby Ruidoso, Washburn and fellow members secured $20,000 in PPE grants, delivered supplies, and even postponed personal plans to aid recovery efforts.

“We stood with homeowners watching their houses wash away,” Washburn recalled. “How could we leave?”

Local Impact, Global Vision

Davis emphasized the Lions’ local footprint. Carlsbad alone hosts three clubs: Downtown, the Heights, and the recently chartered Community Lions, a group of young entrepreneurs who favor action over formal meetings.

On August 16, the Lions will host a “Service Carnival” at the Carlsbad Public Library, uniting local nonprofits to showcase community resources. “When you call Superman, and he can’t come,” Davis joked, “call a Lion.”

Challenges and the Future

Looking around the room, one thing comes into focus: this group is aging. They are steeped in traditions that include singing songs at meetings, group prayers, and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, all of which seem to highlight the antiquity of the group. This group has been blazing trails in philanthropic giving and community service for over a century.

It also brings to mind the plight of millennials who quit their jobs in droves, citing the feeling that they are not making an impact at work. It’s easy to imagine that making a difference might not need to be part of one’s vocation. It’s possible to keep the job and find ways to serve as part of an organization like this.

It’s clear that young members will be embraced, and their updated skill sets will be valued. If making a difference and having an impact on the community is important, one could do a lot worse than to harness the momentum and experience of this organization.

Both leaders acknowledged hurdles, like engaging younger generations. This group doesn’t look for attention for their service. They are happy to serve quietly and see their efforts impact lives directly. Washburn said, “The real reward is the feeling of helping others.”

This year’s international theme, “Lead to Serve, Serve to Lead,” resonates deeply with Washburn. “True leaders roll up their sleeves,” she said.

Her two-year term includes a board meeting in Kolkata, India, where Lions clubs lead globally in membership and innovation. “We’re excited to learn from them,” she said.

For Washburn, the greatest truth that stands out as she looks back on her decades of service is, “You give to others, and somehow, you get more in return.”