1952–2024
Catherine McClary was a longtime public servant, advocate, mentor, and community leader whose work reflected a deep commitment to equity, women’s rights, and stronger public institutions.
Her public service career began in 1974, when she became the youngest person elected to the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners. She served on the board for 14 years and became known for advocating for women, communities of color, and more equitable local government.
A Life of Advocacy and Public Service
Before and alongside her work in government, Catherine was involved in women’s advocacy. She worked as a counselor and trainer at a women’s crisis center and co-authored Freedom from Rape, connecting her early work directly to the history of women organizing against sexual violence in Michigan.
Her commitment to advocacy continued throughout her career.
In 1997, Catherine was elected Washtenaw County Treasurer, a position she held for 27 years. During that time, she became respected for her leadership in public finance, her commitment to protecting taxpayers, and her willingness to mentor and support others entering public service.
She was active in professional organizations across Michigan and nationally and contributed to the development of best practices in public finance and treasury management.
Her Place in This History
Catherine’s story is important to this archive because it connects the women’s advocacy movements of the 1970s with decades of continued public service and institutional change.
Her early involvement in crisis-center work and the publication of Freedom from Rape reflected a broader movement of women working to challenge existing systems, support survivors, and push for meaningful reform.
That same commitment to service, education, and equity remained visible throughout her professional life.
A Lasting Legacy
Across the many tributes shared after her passing, Catherine was remembered not only for the positions she held, but for the way she worked.
She was described as a mentor, educator, advocate, and trusted colleague. Her career demonstrated how long-term change often comes from sustained public service, strong institutions, and people willing to challenge systems that are not working fairly.
Catherine was preparing to retire at the end of 2024 after decades of service to Washtenaw County and the broader public finance community.
Her legacy extends beyond any single role. It lives in the people she mentored, the institutions she helped strengthen, and the advocacy work that shaped the beginning of her career.
Remembering Catherine McClary
Catherine McClary’s life represents an important part of the history preserved by Women Who Changed History.
Her work reminds us that social change does not end with one campaign, one law, or one generation. It continues through the people who carry those values into public service, education, advocacy, and community leadership.
As additional documents, photographs, publications, and historical records become available, this archive will continue to preserve and expand the record of Catherine’s work and legacy.
Sources & Further Reading
You can add these as linked Gutenberg buttons or a simple list: