We are thrilled to introduce Beatrice Black, known to all of us as Bea, who began her term as our Club President on July 1, 2024. Bea brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a heart for service to our club, making her an exceptional leader for the year ahead.
Professional Role
Bea is the CEO of the Women’s and Children’s Alliance (WCA), an organization dedicated to providing safety, healing, and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault. Her role at WCA underscores her commitment to making a positive impact in the community, aligning perfectly with the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
Family and Household
Bea and her husband, Jeff Black, are proud parents of two children, Maria and Jacob (known as Jake), and grandparents to Hudson (6) and Oliver (5). Maria, a nurse at Saint Alphonsus Hospital, is married to Brian, while Jake, who owns Lost Grove Brewing, is married to Lydia. Hudson and Oliver will be attending Lowell Elementary this year, with Oliver starting kindergarten and Hudson entering first grade. The family also includes their beloved cattle dog, Mr. Snickers. Jeff is a Boise native and a graduate of Boise High School, as are their children, Maria and Jacob.
Path to Rotary
Bea’s journey with Rotary began in the late 1990s when she and Jeff owned Bea’s Business Products and Gifts, formerly Fisher’s, in downtown Boise. She was proposed for membership by Kevin Learned and Gary Mahn. Since then, Bea has been an active and dedicated member of the Boise Downtown Rotary Club, contributing her time, energy, and expertise to our collective mission.
Why Rotary Matters to Bea
For Bea, Rotary is more than an organization; it’s a way of life. She has always believed in helping people and embodies the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” in her daily actions. Her commitment to service is evident in her professional and personal life, making her an exemplary Rotarian.
Contributions to Rotary’s Impact
Bea’s contributions to Rotary are vast and varied. Locally, she impacts the community through her work at the WCA and supports other nonprofits based in Boise. Regionally and globally, Bea is proud of the club’s efforts to support Rotary projects worldwide, showcasing her belief in Rotary’s power to make a difference on multiple levels.
A Rich and Diverse Background
Born to Norwegian parents who emigrated to the United States after World War II, Bea is a naturalized US citizen. Her father’s career as a civil engineer with Morrison Knudsen took their family across the globe, living in South America (Colombia, Venezuela, and Chile) and Europe (Portugal and Holland). This rich international upbringing has given Bea a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and global service.