About Us > Kate DeBartolo

Kate DeBartolo

Senior Director

I started working with The Conversation Project team in April 2013 just before a big move and getting married. My role at the time was to build a field structure to support the many communities bringing the conversation to their regions. What I didn’t realize when I started was how much I’d be bringing these conversations to my communities. Whether it was the conversation I had with my husband after we got married and had a child; the chat with my aunt and uncle – and then their elderly neighbor who was excited to learn about it through them; the training session I’ll be doing for my financial planner and her colleagues who want to share this with their clients; or the many conversations with friends… this topic has taken over my work and personal life in the best way possible.

I love seeing so many types of community leaders get involved with this initiative; TCP strives to meet people where they work, live, learn, and pray. We partner with hundreds of individuals and organizations across the country (and world) who are remarkably creative with their approaches to spreading these conversations in their local settings. Our small team depends heavily on local leaders to help us translate this work to appeal to their community members. They are the best at knowing who to engage, and how.

Anyone can bring this initiative to their own families or networks – and we are happy to help. Please reach out if there is any way we can support you.

Kate DeBartolo, Senior Director, has worked at The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) since 2007. She currently leads The Conversation Project team and operations. Additionally, Kate manages and cultivates relationships with national and state-level organizations that help engage the general public in advance care planning.