Litigator. Adventurer. Conservationist
John Hutchins has built a career out of tackling complex challenges, whether in the courtroom or in the wilds of the Appalachian Trail. As a seasoned litigator, he’s known for his sharp legal mind. But outside the courtroom, John is equally passionate about the environment, justice, and service—values that led him to become a dedicated supporter and board member of the Georgia Conservancy.
Born in Greenville, Tennessee and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, John has called Georgia home since 1991. His love for the outdoors runs deep—he’s a hiker, backpacker, skier, boater, and lifelong adventurer. For more than twenty years, he and a close friend have been hiking the Appalachian Trail in segments. To date, they’ve completed nearly 1,200 miles of the iconic route and plan to finish the remaining stretch in one final push once they retire.
“I love the outdoors, and I’m passionate about adventure,” John shares. “Georgia has so much to offer in terms of outdoor recreation, and the Conservancy’s practical commitment to preserving our natural spaces, while recognizing the pressures of growth, really speaks to me.”
John’s connection to the Georgia Conservancy began through professional admiration. As a young attorney, he observed the strong legacy of Clay Long, a founding influence at the Conservancy. Later, a conversation with fellow lawyer and former board member Joann Jones sparked a deeper interest. Inspired, John reached out to Georgia Conservancy President Katherine Moore and soon joined the board himself.
For John, supporting the Georgia Conservancy is about more than protecting the environment—it’s about building a better Georgia for everyone. He’s particularly passionate about helping the organization grow its fundraising efforts to match the scale of its mission. “The Conservancy has a practical mindset—it’s about finding balance. That’s how I think too. Conservation and responsible development can work together.”
John’s commitment to justice and service doesn’t end with environmental causes. He’s spent nearly two decades representing inmates on Georgia’s death row and serves on the Steering Committee of the American Bar Association’s Death Penalty Representation Project. “The most meaningful things I’ve done in life are related to generous giving and service,” he says. “It’s what makes life worth living.”
That mindset also guides how he gives. When it came time to make his annual gift to the Georgia Conservancy, John chose to donate appreciated stock—an increasingly popular way for donors to support nonprofits.
“I inherited some stock from my parents that had gained a lot of value,” he explains. “Donating it allowed me to make the gift I wanted while avoiding the capital gains tax I would have owed if I sold it. It’s a win-win—for me and for the organization.”
Gifts of appreciated assets, like stock, are a powerful way to give. Not only do donors receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the stock, but they also avoid paying taxes on the gains—allowing more of their money to support the causes they love.
As John puts it, “There are so many ways to make a difference. Giving doesn’t have to come from your bank account. It can come from your values, your time, or your assets. The important thing is to give.”
Whether he’s summiting peaks or championing justice, John Hutchins brings a deep sense of purpose to everything he does. We’re grateful to have him on the trail with us, helping to protect Georgia’s land and water for generations to come.
To learn more about donating stock, contact Development Director Andrew Kerr at akerr@georgiaconservancy.org
*John’s story and the way he gives is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It should not be relied upon as legal, tax, accounting, or other professional advice. It is recommended that you consult an attorney, financial advisor, or other qualified professional.