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Staff
 
   
cathy beck-cross Cathy Beck-Cross, Director
Cathy is responsible for program development and oversight, and securing funding for projects that require financial support other than district funds. Cathy is also a liaison to the community, and as such works to be aware of local trends and expectations. Her role allows her to enjoy connecting with community members, agency representatives, formal and informal leaders, and program consumers, in order to develop programming that is timely and responsive to current needs.

Fun Facts: Cathy has been a member of the Central Place team since 1995, first as family support specialist, then as director in 2001. Her family includes husband of 22 years, two sons (ages 17 and 21) and a Bichon, Maddie. To maintain her flexibility of mind, body and spirit she takes yoga, gardens and loves to cook. P.S. She is also a cyclone fan.  
   
judy hamlin

Judy Hamlin, Administrative Assistant
Judy oversees Central Place’s finances, schedules all appointments for the children’s clinic and keeps track of donations received.  When any of the staff needs help with projects Judy is always willing to pitch in. 

Fun Facts: Judy came back for her second round of fun with Central Place in February 2009, being the previous administrative assistant from February 2004 to May 2005. She loves spending time with and being entertained by her four grandchildren as well making time to read a good book. Judy is an avid outdoors woman who enjoys walking, biking and fishing in Canadian waters.
   
Jackie White

Jackie White, School Readiness Liaison
Jackie is the newest member of the Central Place team and began August 2011.  She moved to the Southeast Polk Community four years ago after her husband retired from active duty military service. Jackie has two daughters who attend SEP schools and one who is a SEP graduate and now attends Iowa State. She loves following baseball, reading, and her alma mater - the Iowa Hawkeyes!

   
Angela Porath

Angela Porath, School Readiness Liaison
Angela joined the Central Place team in July 2011. She works to help students be successful in school and beyond. Angela has a background working with families impacted by addiction, mental health, limited/no income, homelessness, domestic violence, trauma, and other difficult life situations.

Fun facts: Angela graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master’s degree in counseling from Drake University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). Her family includes a husband of eight years and two children (ages four and one). She enjoys spending time with her family, watching the Cubs, and rooting on her alma mater, UNI.