Kathlee Pitcher Tobey '95, '98 MS
Utah State University Alumni Merit Citation
Kathleen Pitcher Tobey has built a distinguished career committed to strengthening communities, expanding opportunities and improving the lives of children and families.
A proud third-generation Aggie, Kathleen earned both a bachelor’s degree, graduating magna cum laude, and a master’s degree in American history from Utah State University, along with a secondary education certification. Her time at USU helped establish a foundation for a career defined by leadership, public service and philanthropy.
Kathleen currently serves as executive director of Call to Action Philanthropies, a private foundation supporting children and families through investments in early childhood, affordable housing, scholarships and food security across the West and Midwest. Since 2007, the foundation has invested more than $130 million in communities throughout the region, advancing initiatives designed to create meaningful and lasting change
Her career has consistently brought together strategic leadership and service. Before joining Call to Action Philanthropies, Kathleen served as director of operations for Cambia Health Foundation and manager of corporate social responsibility for Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah. She also led the Regence Caring Foundation for Children, where she helped expand access to comprehensive dental care for underserved children in Utah and Idaho. Earlier in her career, she served as executive director of Gov. Michael Leavitt’s Special Projects Office, managing high-profile events during his campaign and the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, and worked as a legislative assistant for U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch in Washington, D.C.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kathleen has devoted considerable time and expertise to community service. She has served organizations including YWCA Utah, Voices for Utah Children, the Utah Nonprofits Association, Utah Arts Council, United Way of Salt Lake and The Children’s Center Utah. Through these roles, she has helped build partnerships and advance solutions addressing the needs of children, families and communities.
Kathleen’s leadership has earned recognition throughout Utah. Utah Business named her among its “40 Under 40” and “30 Women to Watch,” and she is a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders Program. She is also trained in the 21/64 methodology, which helps families navigate multigenerational philanthropy and develop meaningful approaches to giving.
Throughout her career, Kathleen has demonstrated the power of thoughtful leadership and purposeful service. Her dedication to improving lives, strengthening communities and creating opportunity reflects the values of Utah State University and exemplifies the impact Aggies can make throughout their lives.
For her exceptional professional accomplishments, commitment to service and enduring dedication to strengthening children, families and communities, Utah State University is proud to honor Kathleen Pitcher Tobey with an Alumni Merit Citation.