The Rochester Rotary Club, established in 1960, continues to recognize its members for their contributions to local and global service projects. As part of Rotary International, the Rochester Rotary Club is committed to service, integrity, and promoting world understanding and peace. With 1.4 million members worldwide, Rotary International leads in service and fellowship, and the Rochester chapter plays a significant role locally.
The Rochester Rotary Club is working to regularly highlight its many members, providing the community with an opportunity to learn about the individuals who help drive Rotary’s mission. These profiles include both the professional achievements and personal community involvement of these members.
For more information about the Rochester Rotary Club and its members, visit www.rochesternhrotary.org.
Michelle Asselin – Career Specialist at MYTURN Inc.
Michelle Asselin has lived in Gonic for 25 years. She works as a Career Specialist at MYTURN Inc. and has a background in running the local WMEX radio station with her father. As a mother of seven, she stays active in the community, volunteering for events like the Rochester Holiday Parade and NH Food Bank. After taking some time away, Michelle rejoined the Rotary in 2023, committed to serving others.
Gary Branyen – Owner of Branyen Insurance Agency
Gary Branyen is the owner of Branyen Insurance Agency and has lived in Berwick, Maine, for 40 years. He joined Somersworth Rotary in 1990 and later the Rochester Rotary, serving as President in 2022-2023. He is an active community member, involved in the American Legion Riders, Knights of Columbus, and Civil Air Patrol. Gary enjoys motorcycling and studying history.
Bill Cormier – Realtor at Century 21 North East
Bill Cormier has been a Rochester Rotary member since 1974, serving as President in 1983-1984. A Rochester native, Bill co-founded Hourihane, Cormier & Associates and sold the firm to Century 21 North East in 2022. He is a past chair of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce and has been involved with several local organizations. Bill has been married to his wife, Cally, for 60 years and has two children.
Steve Dore – Retired Radio Broadcaster
Steve Dore has been a Rochester resident since 1976 and a Rotary member for 40 years. Retired from radio broadcasting, Steve continues to serve various boards and the Rochester Opera House. He has been a dedicated member of Rotary, once serving as President and actively supporting local causes.
Chris Harrelson – Vice President of Commercial Lending at Profile Bank
Originally from Alabama, Chris Harrelson is now President of the Rochester Rotary Club for 2024-2025. He works as Vice President of Commercial Lending at Profile Bank and enjoys traditional archery, fly fishing, and skateboarding. Chris has been involved in Rotary for about 10 years and is dedicated to its mission of community service.
Tracy Hardekopf – Retired Non-Profit and HR Leader
Tracy Hardekopf, a Barrington resident, has a background in non-profit and human resource leadership. She has been an active member of Rotary for five years and will serve as President in 2025-2026. Tracy is also involved in local government and is passionate about community service.
Cora-Lynn Hoppe – Executive Director at Rochester Child Care
Cora-Lynn Hoppe, originally from Portsmouth, is now the Executive Director at Rochester Child Care. She joined the Rotary Club in 2022 because of her shared commitment to community service. Cora-Lynn enjoys nature walks and is dedicated to supporting local families.
Joscelyn Hutchison – Insurance Agent
Joscelyn Hutchison became a member of the Rochester Rotary Club in 2023, following a career change from education. With Rotary in her family, Joscelyn serves as Secretary and Fundraising Committee Chair. She is committed to contributing to her community while enjoying time outdoors and reading.
Dick Poulin – Retired Auto Dealer
Dick Poulin, a long-time Rochester resident, joined Rotary in 1981. He retired after 44 years as a new car and truck dealer and is known for starting the Annual Golf Tournament which raised over $250,000 for charity. Dick has received multiple Paul Harris Fellow awards for his service to the community.
Jennifer Ufkin – Vice President of Operations at Cornerstone VNA
Jennifer Ufkin, a Rochester resident originally from Somersworth, serves as Vice President of Operations at Cornerstone VNA and President of the Greater Rochester Community Health Foundation. She enjoys outdoor activities like gardening and biking. Jennifer joined the Rochester Rotary Club to connect with local leaders and find ways to give back to the community.
Jolene Whitehead – Branch & Business Development Manager at Meredith Village Savings Bank
Jolene Whitehead, a newer resident of Rochester, serves as Branch & Business Development Manager at Meredith Village Savings Bank. Since joining the Rochester Rotary in 2022, Jolene has become involved with local organizations like the Homeless Center for Strafford County and the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce.