Cathy Hession

Cathy Hession started her career in Youth Development with the YMCA, followed by a career in operations and marketing for Sizzler restaurants. Her love for non-profit work led her to become President of The Carol and James Collins Foundation, a position she has held since 1998. The foundation is working to improve the status of children, youth, and families in Los Angeles County, with a particular focus on K-12 education and college access.

Ms. Hession served on the Board of Southern California Grantmakers from 2008-14, as well as on the Board of Advisors for The USC Center on Philanthropy & Public Policy for the past 12 years. In addition to her foundation work, she is past Board Chair and 30-year board member of the Westside Family YMCA and an 18-year board member of the Boys & Girls Club of Venice.

Ms. Hession received her BA in English from USC in 1973 and her MBA from UCLA Anderson in 1986.