One of CEDAM’s newest team members, Rebekah Cathey joins us as our executive assistant. We sat down with Rebekah to learn more about her past experiences and what she’s most excited about in this new role!

Can you give me a brief overview of your professional background? 

Prior to CEDAM, I worked for a media company in Old Town for 5 years right after high school as an office manager. My most notable client was Harley Davison because shipping was difficult. I enjoyed being the blues and jazz festival committee chair. At the Michigan Institute of Contemporary Art, I worked as part of the Old Town promotions and design committee for Old Town Commercial Association. I also worked at the family business for 4 years as an office manager. I updated company technology to the 21st century. Finally, I worked in a K-8 charter school in Lansing for 7 years, supporting boards, budgeting, accounting, payroll, and office management. 

How did these experiences lead you to CEDAM?

I really enjoy the nonprofit world. Working in schools was rewarding, but it wasn’t the same. I wanted to come back to the nonprofit world, and CEDAM just fit so perfectly.

What are you looking forward to most as executive assistant at CEDAM?

I’m all about efficiency. So I’m really looking forward to simplifying our processes and making it easier for our teams to operate and thrive.

What were your first impressions of Luke and Ben?

I first met Ben over zoom. I liked him right away. He was professional and approachable. Joyful. Our dogs barked at each other over zoom. He made a nerve-racking situation bearable. Luke, I’m definitely still getting to know, He loves to smile. He asks great questions. He’s intentional with conversation. The most memorable part of my interview was when I was talking about efficiency and said my favorite software was excel. He was not only impressed but asked me what other software I liked.

What community initiatives interest you the most?

With COVID more under control, I think it would be important to do more gatherings and festivals, in a safe way. Opportunities for people to meet strangers with things in common will bring our communities together.

What excites you most about community development?

I’m excited about all the collaborative minds working together to reach common goals, while also trying to make the community better.

Lighting Round Questions

What’s the last book you read?

Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein.

What are you currently watching?

I watch the Chicago series and Law and Order SVU. Station 11 is a really good show, and Ted Lasso is hilarious. I recommend watching them all.

If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?

I’m very social. So travel is very necessary. Places I haven’t been to would be St Lucia and the Maldives. A place I’d go again would be the Florida keys.

What was the last concert you attended?

I have a ton to look forward to this year,  like the Black Keys, the Goo Goo Dolls and Norah Jones, but the last concert I went to was Dead and Company. 

What hobbies keep you going or have you picked up any hobbies during the pandemic?

I love doing craft days with my nephew. I love board games. Specifically strategy games like Dixit and Black Fleet.  During the pandemic, we did board games over zoom.