Catherine E. Cutler, for whom the Catherine Cutler Institute is named, devoted herself for more than fifty years to voluntary public service across Maine in roles including President of Family Service Society, Founder of Community Health and Counseling Center, and Founder of Women’s Information and Advisory Service. Some of Mrs. Cutler’s efforts include leading the advocacy effort to expand Maine’s mental health services, founding institutions to extend the reach of social services for all people in need, organizing new agencies that broaden the role of women in the workplace, and protecting women and children from domestic violence. In her lifetime, she helped to ensure that Maine is a place that supports the health and well-being of all its citizens.
The Catherine Cutler Institute’s staff members have incorporated Mrs. Cutler’s values as their work has expanded from Maine to the region, the nation, and the world.