Catherine Lyons was brought into the International Sleep Products Association 12 years ago to run its meetings and conventions. But major staff changes in ’09 put her in the interim CFO role while the organization downsized and changed its leadership. She stabilized the organization with strong reserves and positive cash flow. No longer the interim, Catherine now runs all the finances and accounting functions at ISPA and its sister organization, the Mattress Recycling Council. She helped establish the MRC, a nonprofit that provides mattress recycling in three states. She’s now busy putting together budgets for ISPA and the MRC and planning ISPA’s upcoming trade show, which already has a record amount of exhibit space.
Best lessons: The best results in projects and organizational success come from working in a collaborative environment; be inclusive with full staff, board and volunteers; and be receptive to the feedback of others.
Home: Alexandria
Family: Married, three sons (6, 13, 16) and family dog, Coco.
Fun summer trips: Husband is from Ireland so spent two weeks visiting family and the Irish countryside.
Free time: Sons’ sports and school activities, reading and cooking (famous for banana bread), and dinners with friends.
Bucket list: Live in the Irish countryside, even for just a year.
Most people don’t know: She was a tomboy growing up, so having three sons is perfect.
The International Sleep Products Association turns to Cardinal Bank for its banking needs. For more info about how Cardinal works with associations and nonprofits, click here.
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