One of Gloucester’s own has risen through the ranks of Ruritan to become president of the national organization.

Guinea resident Elliott Hogge may be best known for his extensive work on the Guinea Jubilee and can often be seen volunteering for various service projects to benefit his beloved community; all driven by his passion for service, which ended up awarding him with the honor of the highest leadership position possible with Ruritan National, Inc.

“It’s been an amazing trip,” Hogge said. His journey began with the Abingdon Ruritan Club, Bena, when he joined more than 20 years ago in 1993. One of the organization’s mud bogs won him over.

“I saw people having a lot of fun,” he said. “It was unbelievable the fellowship going on there.”

After attending several of mud bogs, he was asked to help with the organization’s seafood festival, which is held annually. “I felt the hook then,” Hogge said.

One of the thi...