District Governor-Elect

It is hard to believe how quickly time has passed. In February 2024, I accepted the opportunity to begin the journey toward serving as District Governor. Since then, it has been an incredible and rewarding experience filled with learning, growth, and inspiration. Alongside eleven other District Governor candidates from across Multiple District 5M, I participated in extensive leadership training and preparation. Through this journey, lasting friendships have been formed, and I have been blessed with an amazing support team throughout District 5M8.

I was raised on a family dairy farm in central Minnesota, where I learned the value of hard work, dedication, and service to others. Those lessons have guided me throughout my life and helped my husband, Bob, and me build a wonderful life together. My greatest accomplishment has been raising our four children and watching our family grow to include 21 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. We treasure every opportunity to gather for family celebrations, sporting events, school activities, and special occasions.

From 1985 through 2010, I served as a licensed child care provider in Stearns County. In 2009, I was honored to be named Stearns County Provider of the Year. Caring for children and supporting families provided countless cherished memories and allowed me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

My Lions journey began in 1989 as a member of the Cold Spring Lioness Club. In 1999, I became a Charter Member of the Cold Spring Home Pride Lions Club, where I continue to serve today. Throughout my years in Lionism, I have been privileged to serve in numerous leadership positions at both the club and district levels, including Club President, Club Secretary, Zone Chairperson, Youth Exchange Trustee, and Trustee for the Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation.

I am honored to have received several Lions recognitions, including the Melvin Jones Fellowship, Hearing Award, Dream Catcher Award, and the International President's Award. I am also a graduate of the Lions Leadership Institute and attended the 2025 Lions USA/Canada Forum in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Beyond Lions, I remain actively involved in my community through volunteer service, church committees, the Cold Spring Historical Society, and our local library.

"Let Service Ring."

My theme for this Lions year is "Let Service Ring." Service has always been my passion and calling. Every day, Lions across District 5M8 demonstrate their commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities. Whether it is providing specially made blankets and pillows for cancer patients, supporting American Red Cross blood drives, assisting local food shelves, conducting vision screenings, or bringing joy to residents of senior living facilities, our Lions continue to answer the call to serve. Throughout District 5M8, Lions Clubs continue to demonstrate their passion for service through countless projects that strengthen and beautify their communities. From maintaining parks to supporting local needs, Lions truly make a lasting difference through service.

As we begin this Lions year, our nation is also celebrating a historic milestone—250 Years of Freedom. This commemorative year reminds us of the importance of community, citizenship, and service. It is my hope that we carry this spirit of celebration and pride throughout the year as we continue to grow our impact across District 5M8.

Together, we have an opportunity to strengthen our district through increased service, leadership development, member engagement, and membership growth. Your District Leadership Team is committed to supporting every club as we work toward these goals. We encourage each Lion to embrace new opportunities to serve, expand your knowledge through Lions education programs, and invite others to experience the joy of Lionism.

Thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and your commitment to serving others. I look forward to working alongside each of you in the year ahead.

Let Service Ring!

Yours in service,
Diann Bellmont