New 2012-2013 Dearborn Rotary President, Hassen Hammoud, at left, receives bust of Rotary Founder, Paul Harris, from 2011-2012 Dearborn Rotary Past President, John Artis at the annual President’s Dinner.

DEARBORN — Hassen Hammoud, PhD., is the Rotary Club of Dearborn’s new president for 2012-2013. His term began on July 1, 2012.  President Hammoud plans to continue Dearborn Rotary’s involvement in community service, club growth, fundraising and fellowship activities.   

President Hammoud has called for Dearborn Rotarians to be involved in “continuous improvement” of the organization, encouraging everyone to get involved.   President Hammoud was born in Brazil and is of Lebanese heritage. His native language is Portuguese, and he also speaks Arabic, English, and Spanish.  Hammoud earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering in Brazil, and has two master’s degrees and a doctoral degree in engineering from the University of Michigan. An employee of Ford Motor Company in automotive safety, Hammoud and his wife Mona have two children. His hobby is soccer, and he coaches his daughter’s soccer team.   

Potential members are encouraged to visit the Dearborn Rotary Club.  Hammoud said, “Our Club thrives on the diversity of ideas that members bring with their skills, life experiences, and cultural backgrounds.  We are further enriched by adding the energy and new ideas that newcomers bring.”  Hammoud is also encouraging Dearborn Rotarians to become involved in Rotary District 6400’s Peace Walk in Windsor, Canada on September 21, 2012. Rotary International President Sakuji Tanake of Japan is scheduled to attend.    

Established in 1923, the Dearborn Rotary Club is one of 33,000 clubs located in more than 200 countries worldwide.    The Rotary Club of Dearborn meets every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Park Place at Outer Drive and Park Street in Dearborn.  Guests are always welcome.  For additional information, visit www.dearbornrotary.org  or call 313-278-7233.