This annual award was established to acknowledge a member of the Rotary Club of Nantucket in recognition of their service to the club and community in commemoration of the Rotary motto of Service Above Self that characterized the life of Robert W. Allen.  Nominations are accepted from all Rotary Club of Nantucket members. This year's recipient was chosen by Members and was presented as a surprise to John J. O'Neill on June 24, 2009.

Award Criteria

• A high attendance percentage;
• Demonstrated service towards achieving the annual goals and objectives of the Rotary Club of Nantucket;
• Demonstrated service to the community of Nantucket, or beyond, in a Non-Rotarian capacity.

2009: John J. O'Neill

" What a great surprise to receive this award. A kind deed is like a flower - it makes the heart bloom. Thank you."

2008: Paula Leary

"Receiving the Robert W. Allen, with so many fellow members doing such great things for the club and community, is certainly an honor.  I have made a personal commitment to Rotary as way to give back to the community and be involved with many wonderful projects that help many groups, organizations and people."

2007: Bob Gardner

"To be named the recipient of the Robert W. Allen award was a surprise and a great honor.  When I first joined the Nantucket Rotary it was Bobby Allen who went out of his way to make me feel welcome and encouraged me to take an active part in the Club.  Bobby always made sure that I stayed warm during the Christmas Stroll sausage sale as all the Rotarians demonstrated service above self.  There are so many Rotarians in our club that are deserving of this award it is truly humbling to be chosen and to have Michael there to present the award made it even more special."