CNY Rotary is excited to welcome Bob Balk as the incoming District President. Bob is a leader whose passion for service has deep roots both locally and globally.
Bob’s introduction to Rotary began in Moravia, where he was invited to join the local club in 2012. Despite having traveled the world as an international athlete and advocate, Bob felt strongly about serving the community where he lives. He saw Rotary as the perfect vehicle to do so.
Since joining, Bob has held several key positions within the Moravia Rotary Club, including President, Executive Secretary, and Foundation Chairperson—a role he has embraced for multiple years. His commitment is further reflected through his membership in the Paul Harris Society and status as a major donor. He takes particular pride in Moravia’s distinction as a 100% Paul Harris Fellow club, a testament to the giving spirit that he helps foster among his fellow members.
Bob’s passion for service extends far beyond club meetings and local projects. He has stepped up to district-level leadership to amplify the good work happening in communities across Central New York. As incoming President, Bob hopes to energize Rotarians to embrace Rotary’s service mission, support one another, and share the inspiring stories that often go untold.
Beyond Rotary, Bob’s professional and athletic accomplishments are equally inspiring. As Managing Partner of Pier 70 Ventures,
Bob guides two impactful investment funds: the INpact Fund, focused on healthcare innovation, and The Washington Fund, which supports Washington state companies shaping the future of health and mobility. His corporate career began at The Boeing Company in 1997, where he advanced from business development analyst to Manager of Global Venture Capital Investments within Phantom Works, Boeing’s advanced technology division.
A lifelong athlete, Bob is a six-time Paralympian and medalist, competing in cross-country skiing at four Winter Games and athletics at two Summer Games. He also competed internationally in canoe/kayak and most recently took up Para Bobsled, where he quickly rose to become the 2024 World Champion, adding national and world cup titles and track records to his decorated athletic résumé.
Bob has been a tireless advocate for athletes, serving in volunteer administrative roles with the U.S. Olympic Committee, International Paralympic Committee, and International Olympic Committee. His dedication was recognized in 2013 when he received the Paralympic Order, the highest honor in the Paralympic movement.
Bob holds a management degree from the University at Buffalo and an MBA from the University of Rochester. Above all, he is a devoted father to three children—Robert and Bebe, who study at the University at Buffalo, and Jack, who attends the Rochester Institute of Technology.
As he steps into his new role, Bob is eager to build on Rotary’s legacy of service and fellowship. With his leadership, District Rotarians can look forward to a year of meaningful connections, projects impacting our communities, and stories that celebrate the best of who we are.