Cathy was born in Long Beach, CA, to a family steeped in musical talent in many genres and disciplines. Her mother plays the bass; her grandmother was a concert pianist and Juilliard graduate; and great-grandfather, Dan Gridley, was considered “the foremost tenor” internationally in his day. And then there were "the uncles": Joe Lano, a renowned jazz guitarist; and Dick Stabile, the leader of his own jazz band.

Cathy has always been drawn to music, and her instrument is her voice. Growing up, her family’s entertainment after dinner was to have a “musicale”: a small, informal musical gathering or concert. “We would play and sing wonderful music from the Great American Songbook, spiritual and gospel music, and other music of the time.”

She has performed with the Sweet Adelines in Las Vegas, NV, with the Las Vegas Choral Society, in the Sing it Yourself Messiah with the Golden Gate Symphony, and many other community choruses and choirs. She enjoys performing with the VSA Chorus because, “…being a part of the incredible music produced by the VSA is a huge thrill and privilege.”

Professionally, her career path has largely centered around marketing, human resources, policy and procedure development, collective bargaining, staff development and training, outside medical sales, and most recently, nursing.

Civically, she has served in various capacities with many nonprofits. “I love engaging in projects that benefit children, education, the underserved, the arts, and the community.” She is an active member of Montrose Rotary, co-chair of the Cobble Creek Angel Tree project, a Giving Club member, and she tirelessly assists with many other community projects.

“As a board member, I hope to contribute to the VSA’s full integration into the Western Slope’s cultural fabric, its growth and future development, and providing music and musical education for generations to come.”