Catherine Demesa Neace
Catherine Demesa Neace is the Executive Director of the Foundation for Excellence in Public Education in Clarke County, Georgia, where she leads initiatives that celebrate and support the outstanding educators and staff of the Clarke County School District. With a career rooted in public service and community advancement, Catherine is passionate about uplifting teachers, strengthening educational resources, and fostering a culture of recognition within public education. Under her leadership, the Foundation continues its long-standing tradition of honoring local excellence through programs such as the Mae M. Whatley Teacher of the Year and the Janis J. Stephens Support Professional of the Year Awards.
A proud graduate of The University of Georgia, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Catherine has built her career around advocacy, leadership, and nonprofit development. She also completed the Nonprofit Fundraising Essentials certification through the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education, further strengthening her commitment to sustainable community impact. Whether organizing award banquets or raising awareness about issues affecting nonprofits, she consistently works to connect resources, people, and ideas that elevate education in her community.
Beyond her professional achievements, Catherine is an active voice in the nonprofit sector, sharing timely insights on digital fundraising, donor engagement, and the evolving challenges faced by charitable organizations. Her work reflects a deep belief in collaboration and transparency, values that have guided her mission to ensure every educator feels seen, supported, and celebrated for the life-changing work they do.
• Nonprofit Fundraising Essentials
• The University of Georgia- B.A.
• Books For Keeps
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to pride in my work and the dedication to always give my best through hard work and perseverance.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to stop and take a moment to breathe but never give up and always keep moving forward.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to take it one day at a time and focus on steady, consistent growth.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is securing adequate funding, while a major opportunity lies in increasing the visibility and impact of our programs.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are integrity, keeping my commitments, and always doing the right thing.