Our Gerontologists
Christi Vrban, M.A.G.
Director of Learning and Gerontology
Christi Vrban leads strategy for the Personal Insurance organization’s learning and gerontology initiatives, advancing workforce capability and aging-related expertise. With more than 20 years of learning and development experience, she is committed to driving customer-centered learning and business strategies that help the organization better understand and serve the needs of an aging population. Christi also founded and leads The Hartford’s Working Caregivers of Older Adults community and holds a masters in Gerontology from the University of Southern California’s Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Debra Kleesattel, Ph.D.
Director and Corporate Gerontologist
Debra Kleesattel serves as Director, Corporate Gerontology and applies aging expertise to strengthen the company’s ability to understand, serve, and support customers age 50 and older. With more than 20 years of experience leading cross-functional initiatives across public, private, and nonprofit settings focused on older adults, Debra is committed to advancing age-inclusive practices that strengthen trust, engagement, and meaningful customer experiences. She holds a Ph.D. in Gerontology from the University of Kentucky.
Susanna Smith, M.G.S.
Senior Customer Experience Advisor and Corporate Gerontologist
Susanna Smith advances The Hartford’s customer experience strategy for adults age 50 and older, helping improve experiences across key life transitions such as retirement, caregiving, and aging in place. Drawing on expertise in gerontology, customer insights, and inclusive design, she helps keep customer needs at the center of decision-making. She holds a Master of Gerontological Studies from Miami University.
