From educator to nonprofit leader, Cathy shares her journey of transforming education and community engagement, helping Bexar County’s youth access post-secondary opportunities while empowering women leaders and cultivating meaningful partnerships.
Cathy recently joined Up Partnership in San Antonio as a leader of a nonprofit backbone network supporting the Future Ready Plan, a bold initiative aiming to ensure seventy percent of Bexar County’s 550,000 youth pursue post-secondary education by 2030. With 21 years in public schools, including 14 in Austin ISD, she brings deep experience as a teacher, administrator, and assistant superintendent, as well as 13 years leading a nonprofit in Austin. Cathy’s career reflects a steadfast dedication to student success, mentorship, and building systems that amplify community impact.
Her path was shaped by pivotal moments, including the realization that legislative mandates and budget constraints limited her ability to effect change within schools. Transitioning to the nonprofit sector allowed Cathy to complement educational efforts rather than bear them entirely, offering flexibility to engage volunteers, provide mentoring relationships, and ignite student passion for learning. Personal experiences, such as balancing a demanding career with raising her own children, further informed her approach to leadership and work-life integration.
Cathy shares practical insights on fostering effective partnerships, supporting women leaders, and implementing strategic interventions that create measurable outcomes. From mentoring staff to coordinating school and community resources, she emphasizes that small but intentional efforts can open significant opportunities for students. Her leadership frameworks blend empathy, strategic alignment, and professional development, enabling individuals and organizations to thrive.
Listeners will gain inspiration from Cathy’s story of courage, adaptability, and lifelong learning, seeing how one leader can impact systems, communities, and future generations. Tune in to hear how she navigates complex challenges, builds meaningful connections, and continues to lead with heart, vision, and purpose.
Chapters👋
00:30 Meet Dr. Cathy Jones and UP Partnership
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01:40 Cathy’s Journey in Education and Nonprofit Work
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04:02 Challenges and Rewards in Public and Nonprofit Work
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10:49 The Importance of Partnerships and the Future Ready Plan
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25:36 Reflecting on Women’s Leadership Challenges
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26:59 Balancing Career and Family
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28:22 Mentorship and Leadership Development
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34:38 Board Engagement and Challenges
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41:57 Personal Growth and New Beginnings
Stay strong.
Episode 8