On September 20, Rotarians from across District 5650 will gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Nicolette "Nicki" Klein, a remarkable Rotarian whose impact on our district will be felt for generations to come. (click for more information)
For many of us, Nicki was the person behind the scenes who made Rotary happen. As District Administrator, District Grant Chair, Heartland Rotary Leadership Institute leader, club officer, mentor, and friend, she devoted countless hours to helping others succeed. Yet those titles tell only part of the story.
Nicki had a unique ability to connect people, solve problems, and encourage leaders at every stage of their Rotary journey. Whether helping a new club secretary understand their role, supporting a District Governor through a challenging decision, mentoring future leaders through RLI, or quietly handling the countless details that kept district operations running smoothly, Nicki led with professionalism, humility, and a genuine desire to serve.
Her Rotary journey began in 1989 and included leadership roles at the club, district, regional, and international levels. Along the way, she received many of Rotary's highest honors, including the Rotary International Citation for Meritorious Service, the Regional Service Award for a Polio-Free World, the Service Above Self Award, and District 5650's Cadwallader Award. Yet those who knew Nicki best would likely say her greatest accomplishment was the impact she had on people. Through her guidance, friendship, and encouragement, she helped shape countless Rotary leaders and strengthen clubs throughout Nebraska, Southwest Iowa, and beyond.
One of Nicki's most enduring contributions was her commitment to Rotary education and leadership development. She was instrumental in bringing the Rotary Leadership Institute to our district in 2008 and remained one of its strongest champions for nearly two decades. Many of today's club and district leaders can trace their growth and confidence back to a conversation, a training session, or an encouraging word from Nicki.
As we remember Nicki, we are reminded that Rotary's greatest strength has never been its programs or projects. It is the people who dedicate themselves to serving others and helping those around them succeed. Nicki embodied Rotary's motto of Service Above Self in every way.
We invite all Rotarians whose lives were touched by Nicki to join us on September 20 as we celebrate her life, share memories, and honor the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind.
Honor Nicki's Legacy Through The Rotary Foundation
Nicki believed deeply in the power of The Rotary Foundation and was especially passionate about District Grants, which help Rotary clubs create lasting impact in our local communities. At the family's request, Rotarians wishing to honor Nicki's memory are encouraged to make a memorial gift to The Rotary Foundation.
To make a donation in memory of Nicki:
- Visit the Rotary Foundation donation page: Donate to The Rotary Foundation
- Select Annual Fund-SHARE as your designation. This is the option Nicki would have chosen because these gifts help support future District Grants and Rotary projects throughout District 5650.
- Check the box: "I would like to make this donation in honor or memory of someone."
- Select "In memory of" and enter Nicolette Klein.
If you would like the family to be notified of your gift, enter:
- Gretchen Bren
- gretchen.bren@rotarydistrict5650.org
I will ensure that notification is shared with Nicki's family.
- Enter your donation amount.
- If you have a Rotary.org account, consider signing in before completing your gift. Memorial donations still count toward your personal Rotary Foundation recognition and future Paul Harris Fellow milestones.
- Complete the remaining steps for contact information, payment details, and submission.
Thank you for helping honor Nicki's legacy through a cause she cared about deeply. Every gift will help continue Rotary's work of creating positive change in our communities and around the world.