The American Association of Women in Community Colleges has selected Clark State Community College Foundation Director, Catherine Maher, as a member of the second 40 Under 40 class.
“Catie Maher is an emerging leader in community colleges and higher education,” said Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, president of Clark State. “As the director of the Clark State Foundation, Catie has raised $5.4 million toward the Major Gifts Campaign in her first year. Let me repeat that: she has raised $5.4 million in gifts and capital monies in her first year. And while developing resources is certainly her strength, her focus on student success is unparalleled, and this focus and commitment sets her apart from her peers.”
Maher was nominated for the 40 Under 40 class and said she is honored to have been selected. “It feels good to be recognized by the college – but even more awesome to be recognized nationally,” she said.
Maher has been with Clark State just over four years. She started as an advancement specialist in the Foundation office where she wrote grants and assisted with the Foundation campaigns and programs. She then became manager of resource development for about a year before taking over as Foundation director following Kris Culp’s retirement in July.
“I am constantly impressed by our students, and the amount of responsibility they often juggle while they attend Clark State,” said Maher. “They are truly a remarkable group.”
Maher said she has had several strong mentors in her life. “I was part of a Rotary mentor program while I attended Wittenberg, and my mentor at that time, Steve Sidlo, was the one who initially introduced me to Kris Culp and the Foundation.”
Since then, she said she has been surrounded by people – particularly strong women – who have helped her move forward in her career. “I appreciate the leadership at Clark State who not only encourage their employees to grow – but also take the time to recognize them for it.”
Those selected for the second 40 Under 40 class are considered a rising star for their community college. All members of the 2017 40 Under 40 class were honored during the AAWCC National Awards Breakfast in New Orleans this month and also on the AAWCC website. Members will be given the opportunity for national service opportunities that support the mission and vision of AAWCC.
The American Association for Women in Community Colleges was organized in 1973 and became an Affiliate Council of the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges (AACJC), now the American Association for Community Colleges (AACC). The organization's name was officially changed in 1993 to the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC).
The AAWCC is guided in all of its endeavors by a firm commitment to equity and excellence in education and employment for women in community, junior and technical colleges. That commitment is translated into action at the national, regional, state and local levels through AAWCC programs, activities and services developed and offered in accordance with principles.