Catherine J. Mahony, a writer of multiple genres, holds Associate in Arts degrees in Communications and Liberal Arts from Reading Area Community College, where she received the Creative Writing Award for academic excellence in both 2013 and 2014. She also earned two
awards from the Community College Humanities Association for pieces which appeared in “Legacy,” RACC's annual literary journal. In addition, Mahony has been published in the “Front Street Journal,” “Nota Bene,” and “Agony & Ecstasy: Reflections Inspired by Our Lives.” She was a finalist in the
Creative Nonfiction category of the 2014 Norman Mailer High School and College Writing Awards competition.
     Mahony's first chapbook, “Prior Restraints,” was published in January 2015.
     She has shared her experience, strength, and hope with women incarcerated in the Berks County Jail System, telling her story to provide support for others who struggle with addiction and/or mental illness. Her ultimate goal is to deliver the message that anyone can incite positive
change within their own life and, in turn, inspire others.
     Mahony, originally from Queens, New York, now resides in southeastern Pennsylvania with her wife and 9-year-old daughter. She is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in professional writing at Kutztown University.