Rita Rana, the newly installed 78th president of the Rotary Club of Delray Beach, stands at a bus stop near Old School Square that she says makes her think of kids. She got into volunteering at the Rotary Club after learning about the low literacy rates in Delray Beach schools. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star
Longtime Delray Beach resident Rita Rana, an investment executive with LPL Financial, recently became the 78th president of the Rotary Club of Delray Beach. Over her years in the industry, she attributes her success to “helping clients understand complex investment strategies with a focus on education, transparency and results,” adding that she plans to apply that skill to benefit the Rotary Club.
She got into volunteering at the Rotary Club after learning about the low literacy rates in Delray Beach schools: 55% of K-3 students are not reading on grade level and in the four Title I schools (typically serving the city’s lower-income students), the situation was more serious, with only 29% of K-3 students reading at grade level.
“I was so shocked,” she says. “The rates were horrible, and I started looking for an avenue to make a positive impact with respect to education.”
During that process, she was impressed with educational endeavors undertaken by the Rotary Club. “It’s the second-oldest nonprofit service organization in Delray Beach and every year since its inception, it’s given over 750 scholarships to graduating seniors,” she says. “It also gives a dictionary to every third-grader throughout Delray schools and some in Boynton.
“At first I thought, ‘a dictionary?’ and then I volunteered to hand them out. The kids were so appreciative. For some, it was the first book they had received to call their own.”
In May, she chaired the Rotary Club’s inaugural Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby fundraising event at Old School Square.
“It was a huge success. We really need for people to know about that event because it helped support our charitable efforts,” she says. “Everyone was dressed Kentucky Derby style, and we had contests for best female outfit, best male outfit, and best derby hat. We had mint juleps and old-fashioneds and phenomenal delicacies from Chef Tim of Palm Beach.”
Groups supported by Rotary volunteers and contributions include the Achievement Centers for Children and Families in Delray Beach, the Soup Kitchen in Boynton Beach, the Miracle League, DAF, and the Scholastic Achievement Foundation of Palm Beach County.
“We are actively looking for more members, so if inclined, contact me,” Rana says. “I’d love to invite people to understand the Rotary experience.”
Rana can be reached by email by clicking on her name at delrayrotary.org.
Toward the goal of improving literacy rates, Rana also became a member of the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce’s education fund board, and she invites people to attend that group’s Stepping Up for Our Schools annual education breakfast benefiting eight Delray Beach public schools.
It will be held at 8 a.m. Aug. 28 at the Delray Beach Golf Club, 2200 Highland Ave. The cost to attend is $40. For more information, visit delrayeducation.org/educationbreakfast.
— Christine Davis
Q: Where did you grow up and go to school? How do you think that has influenced you?
A: I grew up in Setauket, a quaint unpretentious town with water views on the north shore of Long Island, similar to Delray Beach. I graduated from the University of Miami where I was president of the Public Relations Student Society and writing press releases for the Miami Chamber of Commerce.
There are so many ways both my hometown and education were influential. Most relatable is the appreciation for Delray Beach. For several years I volunteered as a docent at the Delray Beach Historical Society and have presented on the history of Delray Beach at the Beach Property Owners Association.
Q: What professions have you worked in? What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
A: My career has been a somewhat unique experience in the investment industry. Initiated on an institutional MBS (mortgage-backed securities) trading desk on Wall Street, then as a successful investment adviser and a regional manager responsible for 75 investment advisers followed by the challenge of director of sales responsible for 200 investment professionals.
The second half of my career I was responsible for a billion-dollar territory working with a multitude of financial advisers throughout Florida. I’m proud to have successfully navigated through a highly competitive and sought-after male-dominated industry with integrity and respect, coupled with a human-centered focus.
Q: What advice do you have for a young person selecting a career today?
A: Have a clear understanding of who you are and where you excel as well as what inspires your unlimited enthusiasm. … Be open-minded; where you start may not be the ultimate road you take.
Truly, take nothing for granted. If you want to accomplish something, think of every possible angle. Do not be afraid to ask for input or help.
Compare yourself to no one.
And … save money … just as you pay for your car insurance, just as you pay your rent or mortgage … set aside money monthly and pay yourself.
Q: How did you choose to make your home in Delray Beach?
A: I was visiting my parents monthly to be of any support as my mom was terminally ill. I had requested my regional director relocate me as soon as possible so I could be with my mother full-time.
Occasionally, while visiting them, we would drive down Atlantic Avenue to the beach. Whenever we would drive by Old School Square it would remind me of where I grew up. Over 20 years ago, I made Delray Beach my home. It is another positive influence my parents had in my life.
Q: What is your favorite part about living in Delray Beach?
A: Overwhelmingly, the people who live here appreciate it. We know it’s unique and special. I’m among those who pull together to keep the vibe and allure that made us fall in love with this town intact as much as possible.
Q: What book are you reading now?
A: Typically, I read for relaxation and escapism. However, our book club had read Klara and the Sun. That led me to thoughts on the implications of AI.
Q: What music do you listen to when you need inspiration? When you want to relax?
A: I love music, especially live music. Having attempted playing the piano, I am in awe of musical talent. Actually, all of the arts. Another reason to love Delray. We have varying live music and art venues, talented musicians and artists.
For inspiration, it can really range. When I’m just waking in the morning, I like classical, but my song list genuinely is a huge genre span. If I had to pin down a favorite, I might say the Eagles.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote that inspires your decisions?
A: “Reach for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
Q: Have you had mentors in your life? Individuals who have inspired your life decisions?
A: Grateful for my parents, the role models of integrity, work ethic, organization, generosity and fairness. My brother, for the model of unassumingly demanding the most from oneself and excelling in various ways. And my aunt for demonstrating the power of effective communication.
Q: If your life story were made into a movie, who would you want to play you?
A: I’m not sure … but it seems Meryl Streep can play anyone.
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