New Era of Impact: Austin Witucky
Growing up in Marietta, Ohio, Austin Witucky was surrounded by a large family who lived their values through consistent acts of giving. From an early age, he saw how his parents and grandparents prioritized community; whether through Rotary meetings, local events, or quietly supporting neighbors in need. These early experiences planted the seed for Austin’s own commitment to service.
Today, Austin is carrying that legacy forward as both a young professional and a rising community leader. He is part of a new generation of supporters at Marietta Community Foundation, those who are not only inspired by the past but committed to shaping the future.
After graduating from Marietta High School, Austin attended Muskingum University and later earned a graduate degree in accounting from Ohio University. Now working in the accounting department at Pioneer Pipe, his family’s business, Austin balances professional life with a deep sense of civic responsibility.
In 2023, he joined the Marietta Noon Rotary Club, where he quickly found common ground with others passionate about service. He is also active in the Knights of Columbus, continuing a tradition of faith-based giving and leadership that has defined much of his family’s journey.
But one moment in particular helped crystallize his understanding of community impact: the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. As a child, Austin watched his family and fellow Rotarians rally together to send relief supplies to those affected by the disaster. “That moment really stuck with me,” he recalled. “It showed me that even a small community like ours could rise up and make a real difference.”
That belief—that real impact comes from people stepping up, not just writing checks—guides Austin’s approach to philanthropy today.
“Especially for younger people, giving financially is not always realistic,” he said “But I have learned that showing up, giving your time, and being part of the work…that kind of support can be just as powerful.”
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Austin was honored as one of Marietta Community Foundation’s inaugural “25 Under 25”; a program launched during the Foundation’s 50th anniversary to spotlight the next wave of changemakers in Washington County. For Austin, it is an acknowledgment of his dedication but also a reminder of the big shoes he is trying to fill.
“There is a lot of pressure following the example my family has set,” he said. “But I just try to ask myself, ‘What would they do in this situation?’ And lead with that same intention and dedication.”
As a multi-generational supporter of the Foundation, Austin sees this as a new era of impact; one built on the values of the past, but shaped by the energy and perspective of the present. He is not trying to reinvent the wheel; instead, he’s honoring what came before while carving out his own path forward.
