Celebrating the Retirement of CFA Allbreed Judge Hope Gonano

August 11, 2026

Cheryl Coleman

After decades of devotion to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, Hope is stepping away from the judging ring – closing a chapter defined by passion, perseverance, and a lifelong love of cats. Her journey into the fancy began long before she ever donned a judge’s badge.

Where It All Began

Hope grew up in a family where cats were simply part of the fabric of life. “My mom always had cats, her mom had a cat, and I love cats,” she says. Her first real glimpse into the world of cat shows came in the late 1980s, when she began attending the spring shows at the Sheraton on the river in downtown Pittsburgh. After long, dark winters in “the Burg”, those shows were often her first outing of the season. Then, one moment changed everything: watching Diana Doernberg present a black‑and‑white Persian as Best in Show. Hope adds, “I remember thinking, I want Best in Show.” And she  did just that – many times over, including once at the CFA International.

A Lifelong Love for Himalayans

Hope’s first show cat was a Himalayan, and she never strayed from the breed. “My first Persian was a Himalayan and that never varied,” she explains. Breeding them requires focus, dedication, and decades of commitment. Over 40 years, she built her lines with care, introducing the shorthaired Exotic only after 15 years of foundation work.

Her start in breeding came from a chance meeting at one of those early shows. A fellow exhibitor took her under her wing, helping her navigate the complexities of the breed and the fancy.

The Road to Judging

Hope’s desire to present beautiful cats eventually evolved into a desire to evaluate them. The turning point came unexpectedly. She was at a show where none of her friends were present, and after two days of boredom, she looked up to see Larry Adkison laughing and clearly enjoying himself while judging.

That moment changed everything.

She went home, looked up the requirements for applying to the judging program, and discovered she had just enough credits. “Nine months of birthing that application!” she recalls. It was extensive, demanding, and ultimately successful – she was accepted unanimously by the CFA Board. Her judging trainee period began roughly twenty years ago, launching a career that would take her around the world.

Memories from the Road

Hope’s first allbreed judging assignment was one she’ll never forget: Ukraine. She recalls, “They had champagne poured in clear plastic cups all over my table, then they toasted me.” It was the kind of welcome that stays with a judge forever.

A Legacy of Generosity and Heart

Beyond her accomplishments in the ring, Hope’s impact on the fancy is perhaps felt most deeply in her quiet, unwavering generosity. Her dedication to CFA has been unimaginable: steady, constant, and deeply rooted in her belief that the fancy thrives when its members lift one another up.

Hope has always had a soft spot for new Himalayan and Exotic breeders. Many who entered the breed found themselves guided, encouraged, and supported by her – often before they even realized how much they needed it. She shares her knowledge freely, offers honest and constructive feedback, and opens doors for newcomers who might otherwise have struggled to find their footing. Her mentorship has never been loud or self‑promoting; it is simply part of who she is. If someone needs help, Hope steps in.

Her generosity extends far beyond mentorship. For years, she quietly sponsored regional awards … especially those that went unsponsored. She never sought recognition for it; she simply believed that every exhibitor deserved to feel celebrated. Hope made sure that no one was forgotten, and her contributions ensured that countless cats and exhibitors received the acknowledgment they earned.

This spirit of giving, of lifting others up, has been one of the defining threads of her CFA journey. Whether she is mentoring a new breeder, supporting a struggling exhibitor, or helping a club fill gaps, Hope is there – steadfast, dependable, and wholeheartedly committed to the fancy she loves.

Life Beyond the Ring

Outside of cats, Hope’s life has always been full. She served on the board of her children’s little league football team, thanks to her role as cheerleading coach. She’s explored ceramics, knitting, and crocheting, and these days you’ll often find her at her dining room table working on jigsaw puzzles while enjoying a view of the ocean.

Clubs 

Hope is a founding member of Steel City Kitties, Exotic Breeders Cat Club, and Cat Club of the Palm Beaches. And fittingly, Garden State Cat Club (where she trained and where she judged her first show) was also the site of her final judging assignment.

A Legacy That Endures

Hope Gonano’s retirement from the judging program marks the end of an extraordinary era. From her first Himalayan to her final judging ring, she has brought enthusiasm, integrity, and warmth to every corner of the CFA community. Her story is one of passion turned into purpose, and the fancy is richer, kinder, and stronger because she is part of it.

Her influence will continue to echo through the Himalayan and Exotic breeds, through the judges she has worked alongside, and through the exhibitors she continues to mentor. Hope leaves behind not only a distinguished judging career, but a legacy of kindness, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to CFA.