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PHOTO: Rotarian Jessica Putnam and daughter Landyn. (Submitted photo)
BRIDGTON — When Jessica Putnam joined the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club three years ago, George Klauber was president and welcomed her as a new member and she was soon asked to chair the Community Services Committee A year later, with Carol Madsen president and Julie Forbes president-elect, in the tradition of Rotary, Putnam was chosen as president-elect nominee. Little did she know how, before her time in the presidency came, the world would turn change dramatically, including her personal world. As her presidency begins in a few months, she talked about the last year’s changes.
Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club: How did the pandemic affect your life?
Putnam: In early March 2020, I had just returned from a vacation. My first day back to work (at Edward Johnes), I realized that with confusion over the COVID-19 pandemic and the state of the market, my clients needed me more than ever. I made myself available to those requiring a little extra reassurance. The same day, I found out I was pregnant. I never planned to become a mother. As the oldest of eight, I felt that I had already experienced “motherhood.” My primary goal in life was to continue to excel in my career and have a fully booked social calendar. I thought if I had a child, my career and other goals I worked so hard to achieve would be ruined. Little did I imagine that motherhood would add more happiness and value to my already happy, but busy, life. I continued to work, as hard as I could, and it was one of my best years yet.
BLRRC: How did motherhood affect your Rotary life?
Putnam: I had my daughter, Landyn, in November and planned to take advantage of my 16-week paid maternity leave to continue professional studies and stay involved in Rotary and other community work. The reality was that I very much needed to take a step back for myself and Landyn. By the time my leave was completed, I had childcare worked out. Landyn is in good hands while I’m at work and has a chance to bond with her grandmothers. She is a beautiful, happy baby.
BLRRC: What are your plans for your presidency?
Putnam: Rotary has changed my life in many positive ways, including family-like friendships and working in the community to make a difference. I am excited about my upcoming term and have a few goals. Some are administrative, around committee work, keeping track of projects and more. Membership-oriented goals include encouraging growth by attracting younger members.
BLRRC: Parting thoughts?
Putnam: My message to working, goal-oriented new parents (especially mothers) is that it’s OK to take time to NOT focus on work, or other obligations, and focus on what you have spent the last nine months creating. It’s important for fathers too. It’s still possible to excel in your career, but you need to get used to asking for help. I did and it made such a difference. I also started appreciating people in my life more.
For more information about the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club, contact LakeRegionRotary@gmail.com or visit LakeRegionRotary.com.
