Cathy L. Layton is a retired commercial real estate broker. She was born in Chester, Pennsylvania, and has lived in Sarasota since 1970. She attended the University of Colorado and graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Government Volunteer Positions (appointed or elected):
Sarasota County Planning Commission, Housing Authority of the City of Sarasota, Charter Review Board of Sarasota County, Professional Selection Advisory Board for the Sarasota County School Board, SHIP Affordable Housing Advisory Board.

Community Involvement:
Community Housing Trust of Sarasota, Florida Bar Grievance Committee, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Sarasota (chaired), Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (chaired), Lakewood Ranch Medical Center (chaired), Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (chaired), William G. and Marie Selby Foundation (chaired).

Her most fulfilling recent service has been to the Bay Park Conservancy, which is creating a 53-acre legacy park on Sarasota Bay for the enjoyment of all.

Layton has been married to Pete Russell for 25 years and delights in sharing with him three children, their spouses, and six grandchildren.