Meet Our Team
We are a team of professional gerontologists. We consult. We research. We educate. We work to understand the age 50 and older market to ensure business success.
The Center creates innovative business solutions for the mature market. Staffed by gerontologists, the center is uniquely positioned to apply knowledge of aging to develop one-of-a-kind products and services for The Hartford’s customers, and specialized training for The Hartford’s employees. The center has conducted original research in partnership with academic institutions and produced public education and online content to promote safety at home and on the road. The Hartford has had this in-house expertise since 1984, guiding The Hartford to unparalleled success in understanding and serving the mature market.
Our Gerontologists
Every member of The Hartford Center for Mature Market Excellence is highly skilled and has an advanced degree in an aging-related field. This rich academic background provides them with unique knowledge of the psychological, sociological, and financial aspects of aging.
Debra Kleesattel, Ph.D.
Director and Corporate Gerontologist
Debra Kleesattel is responsible for designing and implementing programs that provide unique offerings for The Hartford’s older customers. Kleesattel has over 25 years of experience leading cross functional teams in the development and implementation of multiple projects, programs, and initiatives in support of older customers. She is committed to positive and meaningful consumer experiences, recognizing the multifaceted needs of 50+ customers. Debra has a Ph.D. in Gerontology from the University of Kentucky.
Christi Vrban, M.A.G.
Assistant Director and Corporate Gerontologist
Christi Vrban leads The Hartford’s industry-leading mature market education programs. Vrban is responsible for the development, delivery, and measurement of the Center’s core curriculum, utilizing multiple formats and platforms to achieve optimal learning outcomes. Christi brings her 18 years of instructional design experience and is highly skilled in producing media-rich, interactive gerontology learning courses. Christi also founded and leads The Hartford’s internal community for employees who are family caregivers, established out of her experience of caring for her parents; this group supports employees who are providing care at various stages while working. Christi completed her M.A. in Gerontology at USC’s Leonard Davis School of Gerontology and is currently working on her Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Susanna Smith, M.G.S.
Senior Customer Experience Advisor and Corporate Gerontologist
Susanna Smith advances The Hartford’s customer experience strategy with a focus on the 50+ market – individuals navigating aging, lifestyle changes, and major life transitions such as retirement, caregiving, and home safety. She partners across teams to uncover opportunities and implement improvements that strengthen competitive advantage while fostering customer preference, satisfaction, and loyalty. Drawing on expertise in gerontology, voice of customer management, and inclusive experience design, Smith is committed to keeping customers at the heart of every decision. She earned a Master of Gerontological Studies from Miami University of Ohio.