Oregon Lions to Gather in The Dalles for 2026 District Convention

Mar 13

Written By Columbia Community Connection

From Oregon Lions District 36G Convention:

By Jennifer Zimmerlee

The Dalles, Ore., March 13, 2026 — Lions from across Eastern Oregon will gather April 10–11, 2026, at the historic Granada Theater for the Oregon Lions District 36G Convention, themed “Stronger Together: Building Our Clubs, One Member at a Time.”

The two-day event will bring together Lions leaders and members from throughout the district for training, collaboration, service inspiration, and celebration. The convention will also highlight the 100-year legacy of the Lions in The Dalles, incorporating a lighthearted nod to The Wizard of Oz in recognition of Judy Garland’s historic performance at the Granada Theater.

International Keynote Speaker

The featured keynote speaker is Melissa Washburn, International Director of Lions Clubs International.

Director Washburn, of Carlsbad, New Mexico, was elected to serve a two-year term as International Director at the association’s 107th International Convention in Orlando, Florida, in July 2025. A member of the Carlsbad Downtown Lions Club since 2001, she has served in numerous leadership roles, including district governor, past council chair and Global Leadership Team multiple-district coordinator.

Before retiring from county government, Washburn worked as chief deputy assessor for Eddy County. She currently serves as a commissioner for the New Mexico Governor’s Board of Disabilities. A three-time Lion of the Year and Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow, her service is defined by promoting positive impact through membership growth, service expansion and leadership development. Her keynote address will focus on strengthening local clubs, empowering leaders and expanding Lions’ impact in communities across Oregon.

Convention Highlights

The convention will include leadership and membership development sessions, marketing and social media workshops, and a collaborative forum for sharing successful service initiatives. The program will also feature an awards and recognition ceremony, a guided downtown tour highlighting The Dalles’ history and murals, and a visit to the Neon Museum.

About Lions Club

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization, with more than 1.4 million members serving communities in over 200 countries and geographic areas. Oregon Lions are best known for their work supporting vision screening, youth programs, disaster relief and community service initiatives.

Registration & Information

Lions members, community partners and members are encouraged to attend. More information and registration details available at https://www.thedalleslions.org/district-36g-convention.