Tony Gutowski
Some people are born to serve others, and Tony Gutowski was one of those rare people.
“Tony dedicated his life to advancing our mission and advocating for the health and well-being of those who might not be in the position to advocate for themselves,” said Michael Wellendorf, Akron Children’s government relations manager. “He was a fierce advocate for patients and families.”
Tony’s Akron Children’s career
Tony joined Akron Children’s in May 2019 as the director of government relations. In 2024, he became the chief government relations and business development officer. In that expanded role, he took Akron Children’s government advocacy efforts to new heights. Whether he worked with local, state or federal government officials, he built relationships and tirelessly advocated for children and families. Leading the business development team, he also explored collaborative opportunities in support of Akron Children’s growth strategies.
“I interviewed many candidates before Tony and wondered if I should choose someone who didn’t check all the boxes. I decided not to settle, and then a colleague recommended Tony,” said Bernett Williams, MPA, chief engagement officer and vice president for community initiatives. “He was so real, easy and genuine. We talked about how he sees the world, how to solve problems and take on challenges. Right away, he felt like ‘our’ person for Akron Children’s.”
Michael recalled that the government relations team started doing things differently after Tony arrived. “We were more deliberate, more focused and more intense in how we engaged with those in positions of power,” he explained. “Tony was always up for another meeting in Columbus or on Capitol Hill. He wouldn’t hesitate to engage or confront an issue, challenge or individual – and he was a master at managing those situations.”
Tony (right) gathers with Akron Children’s President and CEO Chris Gessner; Chief Engagement Officer and Vice President for Community Initiatives Bernett Williams; and U.S. Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes at an event to welcome Chris to Akron Children’s.
His impact on the medical staff
Dr. Shefali Mahesh, nephrologist and pediatrician in chief, said Tony listened deeply – and he brought calm and clarity to even the most stressful situations. “He was a steady voice of support and reason with clinicians,” she said. “He had a rare ability to guide us with both gentleness and firm conviction, while keeping children at the center of everything we did.”
Dr. Laura Markley, medical staff president and medical director of addiction services, said she and the entire medical staff owe Tony a tremendous debt of gratitude for his advocacy and leadership. “He had a remarkable ability to bring people together through warmth, composure and deeply held conviction – earning trust, respect and friendship across perspectives,” she shared. “He made important work feel both purposeful and possible. We will honor his memory by carrying forward the example he set.”
Tony’s education and early career
A Cleveland native, Tony chose to stay local for college. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in urban studies at the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University (CSU), he worked at a local community development corporation to improve one of Cleveland’s most underserved neighborhoods. He continued his education at the Levin School at CSU, earning a master’s degree in urban studies with a concentration in public policy and law, while working at the Cleveland Clinic as a government relations intern.
Tony then accepted a post-graduate fellowship with the Ohio Legislative Service Commission. After leaving the Statehouse, he served as the northern Ohio political director for U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown’s campaign. Tony later served as public policy manager and director of government relations at a regional hospital association before joining Akron Children’s.
His community connections
Tony served on the Salvation Army of Summit County Advisory Board. In 2021, he received a Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce “30 for the Future” award. Additionally, he served on the Ohio Hospital Association Hospital Finance Workgroup, the Ohio Children’s Hospital Association Government Relations Workgroup and the Greater Akron Chamber’s Government Relations Committee.
“Tony was so versatile. Whether he met with a federal official in Washington, D.C. or someone from a community nonprofit organization, he felt comfortable around everyone,” Bernett recalled. “And he made everyone feel valued. If he asked you something about yourself, he would lean forward and listen. He took genuine interest in what people had to say.”
Tony (left) with Sen. Sherrod Brown, getting a tour of the emergency room expansion project at Akron Children’s Hospital, Boardman.
Tony’s legacy
Described as more than a boss or co-worker, Tony motivated team members to work hard and reach their potential. “He believed that his team should always live and perform at a higher standard, and that we always have unfinished business to complete,” Michael said. “He provided a passionate example for us to follow.”
Away from work, Tony enjoyed camping, being outdoors and traveling all over the United States, South America and Europe. He followed Formula 1 racing and Cleveland sports teams.
Tony loved gardening, listening to all kinds of music, cooking, smoking meat and making spicy pickles. He and his fiancée, Kristen Martin, recently purchased a home. He tackled renovation projects with the same enthusiasm he brought to all facets of his life.
As busy as Tony was, he always took a moment to send an encouraging text, tell a joke or share a hug in the hallway. “Tony was hilariously witty and had great comedic timing,” Bernett recalled. “He worked very hard, and he also saw the funny things in everyday life.”
Tony demonstrated that things you want to do aren’t just going to happen, but you need to plan and hold yourself accountable to make progress. “Tony taught me that both your work life and your personal life can be exciting and vibrant,” Michael shared. “I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that Tony lived and experienced more in his 42 years than most people who live twice as long.”
Tony passed away on March 27, but his legacy continues through the countless lives he touched. Read Tony’s obituary to learn more, as we celebrate our colleague who means so much.
