Cathy Dye, known by many as “Cath,” first connected with Camosun as a student in the mid-70s. She loved her Camosun instructors and the helpful college staff. Very soon, she knew that the college community was where she wanted to work.
In 1977, Cathy was hired to work as the Main Cashier at the Lansdowne campus along with Rita Paulhus who was the Switchboard Operator. Located in the entry of the Ewing Building, Cathy and Rita covered each other’s breaks, sick days and vacations. They used a file cabinet in a broom closet as the “safe” for cash, cheques and other valuables. Those were different times!
In 1978, Cathy became the Bookkeeper for the Bookstore, also located in the Ewing Building. As the college grew, the Bookstore moved to the Fisher building and Cathy eventually became Assistant Manager.
Shortly after joining the college Cathy became involved in her Union. She served on the Executive and on many committees over the years. She was Acting-President when the membership voted to go out on its first strike. Much to her mother’s horror Cathy was interviewed for a local TV broadcast. Cathy’s mother labeled her a rebel which pleased Cathy no end. Upon her retirement, Cathy was delighted to be awarded a Lifelong Honorary Membership with CUPE Local 2081.
Cathy spent her final 19 years at Camosun in Financial Aid and Awards, working at both campuses. She loved the variety that each campus and program offered. Cathy’s organizational skills and strong work ethic were appreciated in every role she undertook but it was her positive energy and kindness that particularly endeared her to faculty, staff and students alike.
Reflecting on her 37 years at Camosun, Cathy says: “I feel so very privileged to have been a part of this amazing college community.”
Submitted by Faye Ferguson, CCARE Retiree