When Kathy Brandt joined the Rotary Club of Dunwoody in 1998, she wasn’t exactly a stranger. After years as a "Rotary spouse" supporting her husband Fred, Kathy—encouraged by members like Bill Mulkey—decided to step into the red badge world herself. A lifelong volunteer since her "candy striper" days, Kathy found a unique synergy in Rotary that she couldn't find elsewhere. "Rotary is unique because it brings together successful professionals who are driven to give back," Kathy notes. "There is a 'multiplier effect' when high-energy people with 'can-do' attitudes band together."

Kathy’s professional life as a banker often took her across the Midwest, but Rotary kept her grounded in the local community. During her tenure as Club President (2008-2009)—the club’s landmark 25th anniversary—she leaned into the theme "Celebrating the Past, Building the Future." It was a historic year; while the club inducted 25 new members, Dunwoody officially became a city, with fellow Rotarian Ken Wright serving as its first mayor.

Throughout her years of service, Kathy’s heart has remained with the children. From supporting the Special Olympics of Georgia to her board work with Junior Achievement and helping with the programs at Dresden and Kingsley, she believes in the power of "making dreams real."

Looking forward, Kathy encourages the club to be deliberate with our outreach. She famously wore her Rotary pin throughout her banking career, believing that personal interaction and visible pride in our mission are the best tools for attracting the sponsors and members of tomorrow.

When she isn't brainstorming ways to better our community, you can find Kathy at Hilton Head, enjoying her annual Spring Break tradition with Fred, their son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.