CATHY HUDGINS MENTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Cathy was a Charter HSBBQ Board Member until her passing on December 29, 2023, and a dear friend to each HSBBQ Board Member. She was a devoted mother, wife, friend, passionate educator, and unwavering advocate for youth. Cathy had a light like no other. She loved her students and the HSBBQ teams as much as she loved fishing. 

For decades, Cathy championed young people and worked tirelessly to help them succeed — regardless of life’s challenges or circumstances. She believed deeply in their potential and dedicated her time, heart, and energy to guiding them toward brighter futures.

Cathy inspired countless youth and adults to be better and do better. When once asked what she hoped others thought about her, she simply replied:

“That I care about them, and I love helping people.”

In selecting the Cathy Hudgins Mentor of the Year, we seek to honor someone who reflects Cathy’s spirit —an individual who selflessly invests in the next generation, guides with patience and wisdom, and uplifts others through service, leadership, and love. A Recipient who embodies the same light Cathy carried: a dedication to empowering youth and to building a lasting legacy through meaningful mentorship. 

 As expressed in the words that so beautifully capture her life’s work: “Legacy is not what I did for myself. It’s what I am doing for the next generation.”
— Vitor Belfort