In August, Senior Accountant and Lead Financial Analyst, Becky Abbott, celebrated 20 years with the Catholic Community Foundation. Colleague Bill Marsella describes Becky as one of the Foundation’s private faces. “Her fingerprints are literally on every piece of paper that’s ever been important to the accomplishments of the Foundation over the last 20 years.”
Simply put, Becky keeps the books, which means accounting for every penny invested in the Foundation. She’s the person who generates many of the financial reports, and the one who smoothly navigates the organization through its annual audits, winning the praise of auditors for her exceptional preparation.
Founding president, Jim Mullin remembers being impressed when he first interviewed Becky in 1997. “She had such a wonderful spirit about her, I thought ‘Here’s an accountant who won’t get mad at me,’” Jim said laughingly. “We knew from the first moment we had made the right decision. We felt blessed having her.”
Foundation President Anne Cullen Miller remembers that it was Becky who first showed her the ropes when she joined the Foundation staff in 2008 “She knows the people, the funds, the pricing, even the fund numbers,” Anne said. “I will never forget the first and most impactful lesson Becky taught me – CCF cares!”
Former President Marilou Eldred recalled Becky sharing stories about her two daughters. Becky talked about their favorite subjects at school, what sports they played, the horseback rides, and First Communion practice. “I could hardly keep up,” Marilou marveled. “I remember thinking how does she do all that while managing a demanding professional life so well.”
For her part, Becky prefers to shine the spotlight on the Foundation’s accomplishments. “Over the life of the Foundation, we have given out over $141 million in grants to meet needs here in the Archdiocese, as well as the nation and world. But we shouldn’t grow complacent.” She cautioned. “We should strive for greater granting, beyond what seems possible.”
Congratulations Becky and thank you for your service!