The Elks have been an esteemed fraternity doing charitable work across America for nearly a century and a half! In those many years, the members have given to the community, raised millions, and dedicated countless hours to inspire youth, students, veterans, and much more.

Equality and acceptance have always been in the Elks’ mission statement, along with breaking down barriers for everyone to have a chance to volunteer and benefit from their good works. And just recently, another step towards history-making was made when Patricia Mullin was sword in as Exalted Ruler of Ocala’s Elks Lodge No. 286.

Mullin’s story is full of overcoming the obstacles put in place just because she was a girl. Ocala.com tells the tale of a pioneer, now 73, and her ambitions to take on goals, despite the predetermine gender roles of past decades. Even today when gender lines no longer define a person’s ability to succeed, Mullin still conquered unlikely odds and made history in Ocala!