
By MATT PIKE
St. Joseph Post
The St. Joseph Performing Arts Association has announced the creation of a new award, and also awarded the first winners of said award, honoring donors committed to growing the arts in St. Joseph.
The inaugural award was presented to Pat and Carroll Cathey in recognition of their extraordinary advocacy and dedication to the Performing Arts Association and the cultural life of the community. The award was formally introduced at the Association’s monthly board meeting on August 8th at the historic Wyeth Tootle Mansion.
Pat Cathey served on the Performing Arts Association board several years back and was chair of the Programming Committee, where her leadership played a key role in bringing high-quality, nationally recognized performances to St. Joseph. Together, Pat and Carroll Cathey have been steadfast supporters of the Performing Arts Association, continuing their advocacy even today. Carroll Cathey passed away in late 2025.
The creation of this award serves not only as a recognition of the couple’s shared passion for the arts and their belief in the power of live performance to strengthen our community. The Pat and Carroll Cathey Award will be presented in the future to donors whose support extends beyond generosity.
“This award is an effort to turn the spotlight off the stage and onto the people who make the performances possible,” said Paul “Gibby” Gibson, President of the Performing Arts Association in a news release from the Association. “Our donors deserve attention, respect, and appreciation for their commitment. This honor exists to recognize individuals whose support goes beyond generosity and becomes a true partnership.”
For more information about the Performing Arts Association check out paastjo.org
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