Dona Burke, Our 2027-2028 District 5890 Governor

With nearly two decades of Rotary service and over 30 years of leadership in the petrochemical industry, Dona brings a wealth of experience, passion, and vision to this role. Her journey is a shining example of how professional excellence and a commitment to "Service Above Self" can inspire meaningful change.

 

Professionally, Dona serves as Director Strategic Procurement Operations for Sempra Infrastructure in Houston, overseeing procurement, logistics and warehousing in the US and Mexico. Dona previously worked at TPC Group and LyondellBasell, where she held leadership roles in engineering, operations, supply chain, and environmental health and safety. A graduate of the University of Illinois with a degree in Chemical Engineering, Dona is also a member of the ISM Houston Executive Advisory Board. Her professional achievements mirror her dedication to excellence and collaboration.

 

Dona began her Rotary journey in 2004 with the Rotary Club of LaPorte, where she quickly became a standout member, serving as club secretary and earning the title of Rotarian of the Year twice. In 2008, she became a charter member of the Rotary Club of Houston Skyline, where she served as the club’s second president and, in recent years, as Club Foundation Trustee. She also made a significant impact during her tenure with the Rotary Club of Memorial-Spring Branch, where she served as club president and was named Rotarian of the Year for 2015-2016.

 

Dona has left her mark at the district level, serving in key roles such as Lieutenant Governor and District Grant Committees Chair. She co-developed and facilitated the District’s “Difficult Conversations” initiative, helping clubs navigate sensitive topics with grace and collaboration. Her leadership in training has been a cornerstone of District 5890, as she has shared her expertise on club leadership, fundraising, and strategic planning through Vibrant Club workshops and PETS, as well as at Zone and multi-district training events.

 

Rotary is a true family tradition for Dona. Her husband, Dorden, has been an active member of the Rotary Community Corps and has supported countless projects and events. Their children, Chris and Nicole, carried the Rotary torch through Rotaract and are both Paul Harris Fellows. Even the family’s beloved dogs, Persephone and Lady Sif, play their part in the fight against polio as honorary members of the “Kennel Klub” for PolioPlus.

 

Dona’s leadership, both in Rotary and her professional life, positions her perfectly to lead District 5890 into an exciting future. Her ability to inspire others, combined with her vast expertise, ensures that our district will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact.

 

Please join us in congratulating Dona Burke on this extraordinary honor and in welcoming her as our newest 2027-2028 District Governor!

 

Special thanks to Sandra Liu, Chair of the Governor Nomination Committee, and their time and dedication to select such an outstanding Rotarian to be our leader during 2027-2028.