Ruth Palmer Award to Cathy Croghan

Cathy Croghan has been a valued member of the Friends since 2008, earning our trust and respect. She has shared the gift of civility with us for the past 17 years, making committee work a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Motivation & Background

Drawn by her belief in libraries as vibrant community centers, Cathy enjoys volunteering alongside others for shared goals. A retired public health nurse and advocate for geriatric care, she also volunteers for the St. Paul Audubon Society and Minnesota Master Naturalist, and enjoys reading, walking, bird watching, and playing the piano.

Leadership & Accomplishments

Cathy has served in multiple roles on the Friends’ Board of Directors, including Vice President (2010–2020) and Secretary (2021–April 2025). Her special focus has been the Legacy Giving program, which has been a tradition since 1979.

Project to Renovate the Legacy Giving Program

Cathy worked with the Friends’ Development Committee to improve and promote our Legacy Giving program. They renamed the “Legacy Society” to “Legacy Circle” and allowed those who have included the Friends in their wills to select honorees for the Ruth Palmer Award (new in 2021). Renovation project goals included:

1) Encourage Legacy Gifts
“Even a small amount can make a big difference over time.”

2) Educate potential donors about options available
“You can leave money to your family AND to charitable organizations.”

3) Raise the visibility of Legacy Giving
– Ask probate/trust attorneys to suggest legacy gifts to clients (2012-2019 conferences)
– Continue and increase frequency of articles in library newsletters.

The project, named “Help Someone Become the Next Andrew Carnegie” was entered into the Minnesota Association of Library Friends’ Evy Nordley Best Project by Friends Award competition in 2012, winning first place and a $1,000 prize!

Thank You, Cathy!

Cathy’s efforts have significantly benefited the Friends, especially through increased legacy gifts following the program’s revitalization. It is fitting that the person who improved, strengthened, and promoted Legacy Giving, be honored with the Ruth Palmer Award. For all these reasons, we proudly presented Cathy Croghan with the 2025 Ruth Palmer Award. Thank you for all your contributions, Cathy!