Since joining our club in 1984 just months after the Club was founded, Chris Gutschenritter has been a cornerstone of our Rotary family. His journey began in Sandy Springs, where his neighbor and friend, Gary Lane—one of our club’s founders—encouraged him to attend a meeting. At the time, Chris was serving as the Director of Taxes for Siemens Alice. With control over his schedule and a desire for camaraderie, Chris jumped in, seeking a way to socialize and connect with his community.

Over the last four decades, Chris has been a dedicated leader. He stepped up as Treasurer in the club’s early years, returned to the role in the mid-1990s, then served as our Club President in 2004-2005 for Rotary International's centennial celebration, and later dedicated three years to serving as the District Treasurer.

When asked about his favorite Rotary memories, Chris points immediately to the Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) weekends. For Chris and his wife, Jane, hosting students has always been a highlight. While they’ve had a short break from hosting recently, they were eager to open their home again this year and sad when the weekend was cancelled because of weather. "It’s always been a good thing to do," Chris notes, reflecting on the joy of meeting students and participating in the weekend’s social festivities.

Looking at the club today, Chris is energized by our current momentum. He is particularly pleased with the "relative youth and enthusiasm" of our membership, citing our work with Anchor Place, the success of the fundraisers, and the social bond of "Thirsty Thursdays" as highlights of our modern era.

Outside of Rotary, Chris started the firm Ashford Financials LLC and continues to manage it along with his son, Peter. He also remains an avid traveler, having recently returned from a two-week Tauck river cruise from Basel to Amsterdam. His next adventure is deeply personal: this September, he and his four surviving siblings will take a river cruise together to visit their sister in Sweden. It is a special trip designed to celebrate family and honor the memory of their sister who passed away earlier this year.

Chris and Jane are seen celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary while on a river cruise in France in May 2024.