09/01/2025
After much thought and prayerful reflection, I have decided that I will not be seeking election to the office of Imperial Outer Guard at next year’s Imperial Session in Tampa, Florida.
The feedback that I have received from Nobles across the world has been overwhelmingly positive. I am deeply humbled by the amazing support from my brothers here in Rhode Island, throughout the Northeast Shrine Association and the encouragement I have received from my Grand Master and his Grand Line. This Summer, however, has also been a time of reflection and realignment of priorities.
First and foremost, Lady Suzanne’s health has declined since returning from the Imperial Session in Atlanta, Georgia earlier this Summer. Our family’s focus in recent weeks is on helping her regain quality of life and navigating what her “new normal” will look like in the face of ongoing health challenges. At the same time, my family and I remain deeply committed to service, especially at this stage of life, when our obligations to one another and to the Craft and Shrine must be held in proper balance. I have also been presented with new professional opportunities, but it is clear to me that my energy at this time is best devoted to my family and to my temple and the Nobility who have entrusted me with leadership.
This decision does not close the door on a future run — it simply means that now is not the right time. In the coming year, my focus will remain on Suzanne’s health, supporting my son as he advances in just two weeks as Deputy State Master Councilor of Rhode Island DeMolay, and continuing to serve Rhode Island Shriners with all of the energy and devotion that I can give.
With the encouragement of the Nobility, the support of my Divan and the continued guidance of my Grand Master, it is my intention to run for re-election as Potentate of Rhode Island Shriners later this year. I look forward to enjoying an extraordinary term with my original Northeast Shrine Association Divan Class and to supporting my 2026 counterpart at Aleppo Shrine as we prepare for the 2026 NSA Fall Festival in Hyannis, Massachusetts.
May God bless all of the Nobles of Rhode Island Shriners, every Noble within Shriners International and most especially, the children that we are privileged to serve through the world’s greatest philanthropy.