Rueth named governor of Optimist International WINUM District

Vanessa Rueth, a member of the Merrill Noon Optimist Club, was recently appointed governor of the WINUM District for Optimist International’s 2025–2026 term.
An Optimist member for more than 18 years, Rueth has held several leadership positions, including club president, board member, and lieutenant governor for Zone 2. During her time as president, the Merrill club achieved Honor Club status.
Rueth and her husband, Roger, relocated to Merrill in 1999 following his retirement from the United States Marine Corps. She joined the Merrill Noon Optimist Club shortly after arriving in the community.
“Not only does the club serve the children of our community, I truly feel that if you want to ‘Be the Change,’ this is the club and organization you need to belong to,” Rueth said.
As governor, Rueth will oversee the WINUM District, which serves Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. She said her focus will be on optimism, inclusion, and transformation. Her theme for the year is “Stand tall, face the sun,” reflecting her belief in resilience, hope, and the power of community.