Born in Staten Island and raised in Hunterdon County, Katie is an seasoned educator, a Somerset County Teacher of the Year, and a finalist for New Jersey State Teacher of the Year. Her career spans residential treatment centers, special education, and Title I schools, giving her a deep understanding of the diverse needs of New Jersey families.

Beyond the classroom, Katie lives her belief in the power of connection. She and her therapy dog, Freddy, volunteer with children with special needs and senior citizens. Her passion for mentorship also has extended to the field and stable, where she has coached youth lacrosse and field hockey and served as a volunteer horseback riding instructor for the Somerset County Parks System.

A global spirit, Katie has explored South America, Asia, Africa, and Europe, visiting international schools to better understand the universal needs of children. At home, she stays grounded through gardening, baking, and casual pickleball. These diverse experiences fuel her work for Daniela’s Wish, where she manages the foundation’s digital presence and builds vital partnerships with school districts to ensure the mission of spreading joy reaches every student.