Conscientious Cultivation: Honoring Judy Hutchison

Recently, Judy Hutchison stepped down from her role as AFC Board Chair. While she’ll continue to serve as a board member and regular volunteer, we wanted to take a moment to highlight the vital work she has done in the role. AFC staff member Nicole Donovan recently interviewed her and wrote the following piece.

Gardening ranks among Judy's many interests, which fits with her long history of creating beauty in this world. Did you know she was also once a concert violinist? Judy's work tending and nurturing AFC over the past 12 years has helped propel the organization forward, surpassing the expectations of anyone with a lesser vision. Judy has shepherded an assemblage of kind-hearted people into a fully-formed, professional organization, with expert staff, and trusted friendships throughout the County.  

When asked why she is pulling back from her role as board chair, Judy states with precision, "Because it's time for the next generation of the young-retired to take over." In fact, she says it's been her M.O. over the last two years to raise up new board members. Like a conscientious gardener who plans her beds well in advance, Judy had a long-range vision to recruit and train a new generation to guide AFC into the future. 

AFC is truly an interfaith endeavor, with each board member bringing their own religious expertise to the table. It is this spiritual commitment that provides the moral imperative and stamina to fight through obstacles and problem-solve as a team. AFC works closely with local government, and provides a key piece of the social safety net for Santa Cruz County. Although Judy's personal efforts have been invaluable, she is the first to insist that this has always been a team effort. Indeed, over the years, AFC has advanced to become an exemplar of the power of interfaith coalitions. 
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As for Judy's future? In addition to her myriad home projects with husband Tim, Judy tells me she is putting more energy into coordinating hospitality events at her home church, Holy Cross. We have been the lucky beneficiaries of the good fellowship, entertainment, and food Judy brings together at every AFC annual gala. But amid her busy and varied "retirement" schedule, we can bet she has already planted the seeds of something magnificent that will quietly grow until the time is right to blossom and bless this world.