One of my CADA heroes is J. Peter Cahn. Our story began in 1991 at my first CADA Leadership Camp when we were assigned as roommates. Like any curious newcomer, I asked Peter the inevitable question, “Who are you and what do you do for CADA?” Little did I know that this question would lead to a lifelong bond. Five minutes into his detailed explanation of being a true mucky muck, I fell asleep (it was camp, we work late hours), and the rest, as they say, is history.  We joke about that night still today and I truly feel it is what sealed my relationship with him.

Peter has been my guiding star in all things CADA. Over the years, I’ve come to see him not just as a mentor, but as a father figure. Our connection has grown so deep that I’ve embraced his children as my own siblings and his grandchildren as my nieces and nephews—and to my delight, they’ve adopted me back. We’ve shared birthdays, weddings, divorces, births, and even deaths together. There aren’t enough words to express my gratitude and admiration for this man.

Peter’s credentials within CADA read like a who’s who, but he himself is an enigma. His dry sense of humor, unwavering love for his family, commitment to CADA, and his affection for me are just a few of the qualities that make him an extraordinary human being. Without his guidance (and I have to give a shout out to Alden Esping and Jack Ziegler), I wouldn’t be the person I am today (and yes, some of my “bad” qualities are his doing too, so get over it).

Today, I called him to wish him a happy birthday, and our conversation stretched into an hour and a half before I realized I still had work to do. During our chat, we caught up on life, and he even spoke to my son, who fondly calls him Papa Pete. As always, I was genuinely interested in his latest adventures, and travels. Below is a snippet of our conversation—some parts I knew, some were new to me, but everything is 100% my Peter.

I asked him “what is it that you loved most about your  time with CADA and what is it that was difficult for you?”  and while he talked about his days in CADA I took note.  ​​

Reflections on a Journey with CADA

Reflecting on my time with CADA, several moments and achievements stand out. The camaraderie and bonds formed with the crew were truly memorable. I cherished developing the Certification program, breaking bread at dinners and events, and the many bonding moments that followed. Collaborating with David Gibson to develop the first website was a significant highlight.

Being President, however, was not my favorite role. The challenge of “surviving pot shots from the board members” was a major hurdle.  I truly loved my time at CADA and it holds a place in my heart, but some days were trying to say the least.

On a personal note, my wife Bobbi, who passed away in 1998, was instrumental in the initiation of the CADA Scholarship. Our three children, Kathy, Karen (All Action Awards), and Brice, continue to inspire me.

My teaching career began at Woodland Junior High School, which later became Douglas Junior High School, from 1968 to 1976. I then moved to Lee Middle School in Woodland, CA, where I taught from 1970 to 1972 and from 1976 to 1999. During this period, I transitioned to teaching English and Journalism. I served as Area A Coordinator from 1983 to 1985 and as CADA President (#32) from 1987 to 1988 and in 1989, during which the convention was held at the Hyatt Regency in San Francisco. Under my leadership, CADA gained national recognition from ACSA and NASSP, developed its first major sponsorship, and created the Honorary Membership Award.

From 1991 to 2012, I was the Special Projects Coordinator and Legislative Advocate, attending NAWD, NASC National Conference, and the first International Conference in Australia, all in CADA’s name. My contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the 2014 Earl Reum Award (State, Regional, National Winner), CADA Hall of Fame, 2008 Jack Moore Award, Warren Shull Award (State/Regional), and the Outstanding Activities Program for Area A.

These experiences and accomplishments reflect my dedication and passion for CADA and the lasting impact it has had on my life and career.

How can you not love him

I recommend that everyone should find themself a J Peter Cahn, you can’t have mine he is already spoken for.  This organization has truly been a blessing in my life.  I have lifelong friends from all over the state of California, as well as the United States and Canada (Area H) because of my involvement in CADA.  The human connection is real, grab it when it’s right in front of you.  Thank you CADA, thank you J Peter, thank you reader, for giving my life more purpose and love than I can ever give back.

Originally printed in CADA News Volume 124, Number 1 (September 2024)