Mrs. Catherine S. Chandler

In Memory Of

Catherine S. Chandler

Catherine Chandler was born in a suburb outside of Chicago, Illinois during the roaring twenties. She was the middle child of three siblings. Her parents grew up as next door neighbors in the town where she was born and raised. Catherine’s family was well educated, and this shaped who she became. From Lincoln Elementary School through Nichols Junior High School, Catherine earned academic honors in all subjects, from physics to French. As an excellent student, she was chosen as president of her class in both 7th and 8th grade. She also excelled in theater, horseback riding, ballet, and especially in swimming. Her swimming coach even recommended that she train for the Olympics, but her mother would not allow it. At the age of 16, through testing that competed with college sophomores, she received the highest averages of the year in chemistry, physics, and biology. Teachers encouraged her to become a doctor. Catherine also led multiple academic and social groups at Roycemore Upper School. She was the student council recording secretary, captain of the badminton team named ‘The Eggbeaters,’ on the basketball team, and even subbed on the hockey team.

Katie always took a keen interest in the school. She loved seeing Chandler students around Pasadena in their uniforms. She believed that the development of a child's character and intellect should be at the heart of

Chandler's mission and it brought her joy knowing those values continue to guide us. We honor her legacy each day at Chandler and remember her as a kind, loving matriarch.

- Head of School John Finch

The school continues to reflect the strong life values, academics, and athletics that were so important to Tom and Katie. The two of them were an unbeatable team. Their gifts enriched the life of the school. Catherine’s mere presence epitomized grace, dignity, love and commitment. Her warmth, special caring, infectious laugh and abiding faith make Catherine very special to so many.

- Former Head of School Jeff Stephens

At Monticello College, her influence expanded and she became known as the ‘BWOC,’ or Big Woman On Campus. She was president of both the student council and the Marlin Swimming Club, where she specialized in diving. She also joined the softball team called the ‘Mad Batters.’ Her endless achievements were noticed by her instructors and peers alike as seen in these two quotes taken from her college evaluations. “Catherine has won the admiration and respect of both faculty and students by her resourcefulness, independence, and lively participation in group activities.” — College Counselor. “An all-around good student with ability, initiative, and capacity for work.” — College Physics Teacher. After college and during World War II, Catherine worked an office job that specialized in tax law for a few years. On a short trip to the West Coast, she met Thomas Chandler. They quickly fell in love, married, and together they co-founded Chandler School in 1950. In the early years, Catherine worked hard for the success of Chandler School by taking on multiple roles including janitor, secretary, bookkeeper, dish washer, art teacher, and whatever was needed. Mr. and Mrs. Chandler started a family, and also always considered Chandler School their extended family. Catherine Chandler passed away peacefully in September of this year with family and friends by her side. Her family considers it a great honor to have had her as a part of their lives and will miss her dearly. As her personal accomplishments so clearly show, Catherine Chandler absolutely was the ‘All-Around Girl.’ The Catherine S. Chandler Award for Best All-Around Girl was established in 1970. This award, aptly named in honor of our school's co-founder Katie Chandler, is presented annually to the girl who demonstrated success as a citizen and a positive class leader, as a student, and as an athlete and a participant in the Fine Arts.

She was a lovely lady, fiercely loyal to the people and things she cared about.

- Former Director of Development Joyce Greif