Cathy Butz ’87, Recipient of the 2026 Rosemary Wire Anderson (“Rosie”) Award

Cathy Butz ’87, the FY26 recipient of the Rosemary Wire Anderson (“Rosie”) Award, is celebrated by her peers as the “paragon of all that is finest in a Holton-Arms alumna.” Established in 1990 to honor “extraordinary service” to the school community, the Rosie Award recognizes those who have left a lasting impact on faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees. Cathy embodies this legacy, integrating “intellect, character, and purpose” into every role she has held—from President of the Parent Association to her two consecutive terms as Chairman of the Board. Her colleagues describe her as a natural leader who is “as close to perfect as one can get on this side of paradise,” consistently leading with impeccable judgment and masterful problem solving.

As a leader in her communities, Cathy’s tenure has been defined by her unflappable leadership and profound humanity.  Whether co-chairing the Head of School Search Committee or serving on the Buildings and Grounds and Advancement committees, she has helped guide the School through both significant challenges and triumphs.  Mark Israel notes that she leads with “decency and compassion and, above all, love,” setting a tone that encourages the community to “support one another as we find a way or make one.”  Her dedication is further evidenced by her role as a “quiet guiding hand” and “unofficial mentor” to new trustees, always available as a sounding board to help others navigate their responsibilities. 

Cathy’s work at Windridge Farm reflects the curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving that define a Holton education.  Managing 2,000 acres, she utilizes agricultural foresight by fusing traditional techniques with cutting-edge Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology to create three-dimensional field maps. Her commitment to “experimentation leads to results”—such as minimizing herbicide use and employing organic fertilization—serves as an agricultural model for the future. 

Cathy also embodies the “determined Holton girl” through her “tireless work ethic” and “uncanny ability” to bring our community together to accomplish great things. Such attributes extend to her personal life. Jennifer Cornfield Shenker recalled Cathy’s determination, as she once insisted on “trekking” through a walk despite the pain of what turned out to be a broken foot, simply because she valued their time together. Cathy Butz’s contributions are a gift that will truly “redound to the benefit of Holton students for generations to come.”