Press Release
Rudy Garcia, a member of the Rotary Club of Fluvanna, began his one-year term as district governor of Rotary International District 7600 on July 1. District 7600 covers central and southeastern Virginia and includes 64 Rotary clubs with about 2,700 members.
Garcia, a Fluvanna County businessman, owns a tax preparation and financial planning firm. He was born and raised in Key West, FL. He joined the Army in 1977 and served 22 years. Upon retirement, he worked for the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Fork Union Military Academy until opening his own businesses in 2006. He and his wife Catherine were married in 2001 and are both multiple-time Rotary Club presidents.
Garcia graduated from Ohio University in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in specialized studies and in 2005 from Walden University with a master’s degree in science in education.
During his term, Garcia will focus on the district’s efforts as part of the global membership service organization with an emphasis on mental health, recognizing its critical role in community well-being across Virginia. Garcia aims to support a culture that understands and supports mental health, while working to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and improve access to mental health services. Along with the 2,700 Rotary members across central and southeastern Virginia, 1.4 million Rotary members in 200 countries and regions will continue to actively address mental health as part of Rotary’s ongoing efforts to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.
“Mental health has often been a less talked-about aspect of wellness. However, in a world grappling with various challenges, it is imperative that we bring mental health to the forefront. Rotary, with its widespread network, has the capacity to foster dialogue and support,” said Garcia. “By emphasizing mental health, we can make a considerable difference in communities around Virginia. This is about nurturing humanity for a better tomorrow.”
Garcia joined the Rotary Club of Fluvanna County in 2011 and served as club president from March 2013 until June 2016. He has also served as the Interact Club coordinator and is currently his club’s executive secretary. Garcia was recognized as Rotarian of the Year by his club for 2012. Garcia served as the assistant governor for Rotary Area 2 (Short Pump, Fluvanna, Goochland and Innsbrook) during the COVID years from 2020-2022. Previously he was the chair of the District Foundation Development Committee and the District Grants Committee.
