Hired in January 2000, Cathy has been a familiar face in our community as the KCU Outreach Coordinator for the past 23 years. In her time with us, Cathy has worked diligently to develop robust financial education offerings for schools across multiple counties.
“I love being out in the community and working with diverse groups and schools,” she said. “When I was younger I wanted to be a special education teacher, but through the course of life events I didn’t complete that journey, at that time. Working at KCU ultimately got me back in the classroom and I’ve had the pleasure of teaching thousands of kids, teenagers, and adults over the last 23.5 years. It’s been great! I love witnessing the “aha” moments!”
Over the past two decades, Cathy has made impressive strides in financial education not only through our KCUCares Foundation but also at a state and national level. She not only created and ran the Credit Union Development Council of Washington for 11 years, but she also served on the Financial Education Public Private Partnership for 20 plus years, served as Chairman for the National Youth Involvement Board, became a Credit Union Development Educator (DE), and more.
“One year, I wrote a song and went to Olympia with my Ukulele to give testimony before the Senate Early Education Committee hearing on the importance of financial education. A friend and I performed for them, and they aired us on TV Washington and cut us a CD! I booked four other gigs and got to fly around the country and open various credit union events just from that one performance!” said Cathy.
We have been so honored to have Cathy on our team and are beyond proud of her accomplishments in her time here. While we are sad to announce that Cathy will retire later this month, we wish her all the best on her next journey!
“I’ve worked with Cathy at KCU for the past 23 years, although I’ve known her much longer,” said Leah, Kitsap Credit Union VP of Marketing. “Our daughters had gone to school together since preschool, were in each other’s weddings, and have enjoyed a lifelong friendship. Working with Cathy is like working with the most joyful energizer bunny. She is enthusiastic, creative, hard-working, and passionate about the credit union movement and, most especially, about helping others grow their financial capabilities through access to quality financial literacy education. Cathy, it has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to work with a person of your integrity, passion, and heart. Thank you for making a positive difference in literally thousands of people’s lives. Congratulations on a well-deserved retirement!”
Cathy says she looks forward to having time to work on jigsaw puzzles, spend quality time with her family including six grandkids, and continuing her passion for cooking. Looking back on her career, Cathy says, “Collectively, the groups I’ve taken part in have taught thousands of credit union professionals how to provide financial wellness education through their credit unions, local schools, and communities. It’s taught community members how to change the trajectory of their financial lives and it’s both humbling and rewarding to have been a part of that. I have enjoyed a very fulfilling career, for which I’m thankful!”
And we are thankful for you! Please enjoy the following well-wishes from the Cathy’s coworkers:
“It’s been such a pleasure working with Cathy for the last seven years! I have so many great memories with her, like smashing glass into a dumpster, killing spiders in our storage unit, planning and working on numerous events together, working with her in schools, walking in parades in the rain, and finding the best places for lunch! Not only has Cathy been a huge asset to KCU, but she’s been a dear colleague and friend!” – Melissa, Senior Marketing Specialist
“It’s been an absolute JOY to work with Cathy. She’s been a mentor and a friend since I began at the credit union and I value her as both my coworker and my friend. It’s hard to imagine not having her part of our everyday life. Best of luck in a well-deserved retirement.” – Bryan, Senior Graphic Designer
“Working with Cathy has been the best. Cathy is fun, energetic, up for anything, and willing to help wherever needed. Cathy has made me a better person by learning from her never-ending energy and willingness to help. I have gained a friend over these years and am grateful for her! I wish the best for Cathy and her husband Tim in retirement. May they have many new adventures and the best memories!” – Gail, Marketing Assistant
“I have only had the privilege of working with Cathy for a few months and in that time it has been easy to see how bright Cathy’s light shines. She is such a positive and motivating part of the marketing team. Her passion for helping our community is inspiring and her cinnamon rolls are legendary! Wishing you all of the best in your retirement, Cathy! You deserve it.” – Abigail, Content Strategist
Thank you for all you have accomplished, Cathy and have a wonderful and well-deserved retirement!
