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GRSP Update
GRSP Conclave Slated Aug. 21–23 in Savannah, Georgia!

by Katheryne Fields, GRSP Executive Director

Rotarians and guests are warmly invited to a very special Conclave to welcome the Georgia Rotary Student Program Class of 2026–2027 and celebrate a historic milestone—our 80th Anniversary! This commemorative kickoff event will take place August 21–23, 2026, at The DeSoto Hotel in historic Savannah, Georgia.

Conclave is where it all begins for GRSP. This year, 38 international college scholarship students from 20 countries around the world will gather to meet each other for the first time, connect with their host families, and engage with Georgia Rotarians. These incredible students will be representing GRSP at 23 colleges and universities across the state.

Founded in 1946 in the aftermath of World War II to foster peace through understanding, GRSP has brought approximately 4,000 students from 113 countries to Georgia. As Jim Drake, 2026 Conclave Chair and GRSP Chair Emeritus, shares:

"Celebrating GRSP’s 80th anniversary is a powerful reminder this program is about more than just classroom education. It’s about coming to realize that although we are from different countries, have different languages and cultures, in the end, our similarities far outweigh our differences."

 Weekend Highlights

  • Orientation & Informational Sessions: Important sessions for students, trustees, officers, host families, and friends will take place throughout Friday and Saturday to set the foundation for a successful year.
  • Official City Welcome: The Class of 2026–2027 will be officially welcomed to Georgia’s "First City" by Savannah Mayor Van Johnson.
  • GRSP Alumni Keynote: Hear a special address from GRSP Class of 2015 Alumnus Nipuna Ambanpola of Sri Lanka, UGA Graduate, and Industry Analyst for Data & AI
  • The 80th Anniversary GRSP Cabaret: On Saturday evening, attendees (business/smart attire) will enjoy a special celebratory dinner and the always-entertaining "Cabaret." This popular variety-style performance and parade of flags will showcase our students' home countries through traditional dress, cultural presentations, skits, and musical performances.
  • Fellowship & Socials: The weekend includes a social for the students and a separate mixer for Rotarians to connect and celebrate eight decades of global impact.
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt: Test your skills and explore the historic and scenic city of Savannah in an unforgettable scavenger hunt with the new GRSP scholars to wrap up the weekend.

Lodging & Registration Information

The DeSoto Hotel, located at 15 E Liberty, Savannah, GA 31401, has a block of rooms set aside for Conclave participants who require lodging. Please note that the hotel registration link is separate from the meal registration link.

  • GRSP Scholars: Pre-registered for the event and all meals.
    • Scholars will be housed with Savannah area Rotarians.
    • Transportation to Savannah for scholars is the responsibility of their sponsoring rotary Clubs.
  • Rotarians and Guests: Please register for meals and reserve your lodging using the links provided on the website.

? Important Deadlines & Pricing Details:

  • Deadline for Rotarians and Guests to Reserve Hotel Rooms using the GRSP special rate: July 19, 2026
  • Deadline for Rotarians and Guests to Reserve Meals: August 3, 2026
  • Friday Welcome Dinner Buffet: $99 per person
  • Saturday Anniversary Cabaret Dinner Buffet: $99 per person

Gear Up: The GRSP Store is Live!

Be sure to check out the Official GRSP Online Store! We’ve partnered with CivicSwag to bring you high-quality gear. To browse the collection, simply visit www.grsp.org and click "SHOP." It’s the best way to ensure you’re sporting the latest GRSP apparel in support for our 80-year legacy. 

A special thanks to the Savannah-area Rotarians who will serve as weekend hosts for our students. Let’s come together to celebrate 80 years of peace, understanding, and worldwide Rotary family fellowship!

Learn more and register at: https://www.grsp.org/conclave2026/

Posted by Katheryne Fields
June 24, 2026

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