Red Badge Biographies
Another stunning batch of new members presented their stories. Today we welcomed Andy Hartmann, Christen Holder Watkins, and Justin Walker.
Platinum Badger John Caldwell with Reds Andy, Justin and Christen
Andy Hartmann is originally a southern boy (Long Beach, CA) who found his way north, out of the sun and into the mist, to study at UCSC in '95 majoring in Environmental Studies. Andy played around with various interesting jobs before settling into an electrician apprenticeship program. Simultaneously mastering his craft and wowing the local electrical worker's union (IBEW 234), Andy moved full time into serving the union. He's currently both the Union Representative and Local President! Andy's wife of 5 years is Juel. They have 2 cats and a dog and love scuba and woodworking (Andy, not the pets).
Christen Holder-Watkins hails from Monterey, CA. Inspired in her early years by her grandmother, Patricia Holder, Christen learned to live by Rotary values long before she knew what Rotary was. Patricia taught her the fundamentals: "Be kind to those around you. Share with those less fortunate. Love God." Christen is proud to have grown up in the 60's "in a family of hippies". It was an optimistic time. She learned to believe in the positive powers of empowerment, taking personal responsibility and building teams. Christen attended San Jose State, has 2 sons: Justin and Tanner, and currently works as a Financial Planner with Smith Barney.
Meet Justin Walker, Atchison Kansas' favorite son (Town motto: "It's a Great Day in Atchison"). The son of a Rotarian (thanks Mom!), Justin was a RYLA member in his teens and participated in a youth exchange spending 6 months in Paris (France, not Texas!). Hard to say who had the more exotic cultural experience, Justin or the Parisan youth with whom he exchanged 6 months to live in Atchison!? Justin's interest and skill with languages led to a stint at the DLI in Monterey studing Farsi. Her served as a linguist in the Navy. He was married in 2000 and currently resides in Elk Grove, CA with his wife Wendy, son Cyrus, 2 cats and dog. Justin commutes regularly to Santa Cruz where he is a Client Relations Mamager for Scharf Investments.
We warmly welcome Andy, Christen and Justin to the Santa Cruz Rotary - Sunrise!