Behind the scenes, get to know: Katherine (Kathy) Montecalvo

What are three things everyone should know about you?

I am an only child, which has shaped my perspective and independence. It has allowed me to develop a strong sense of self-reliance and adaptability. An additional fun fact is that my daughter is also an only child, and so is her dad. While each of us have no siblings, she has no siblings, aunts, uncles, or cousins.   

I am passionate about my job and making a positive impact on the provider community and members we serve at Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in Ohio for Medicaid. I look at every situation I encounter from an outside perspective, which leads me to discover issues that have not been identified, educational opportunities, and full circle resolution. I find fulfillment in helping others, learning, teaching, and I find problem solving extremely rewarding. I am always willing to help, give my opinion, or even take over something if someone else is unable to devote the time and attention needed.   

I am also passionate about animals. I would have every animal in the world if I could. But I must keep it reigned in, so I just have two cats. One is 15, and the other is 2 years old. My oldest is from a rescue, and the youngest was tossed from a car at a local park. My youngest weighed 1.1 pounds and was estimated to be 3 weeks old on her first vet visit. She fit in the palm of my hand. 

One thing you never leave home without

I would never leave home without my phone. I find it to be an indispensable tool with a multitude of functionalities. My mom always jokes, “Is there anything that phone doesn’t do?” Not only does it keep me connected to my family/friends, but I also use it for music streaming, I pay with the cards stored in my virtual wallet, I play games, use it for my email, review my finances, and use it for navigation maps. Anyone that knows me knows that I Google everything! 

Who has been most influential in your life?

My daughter has been the most influential person in my life. She has always been determined and pursued her passions. She has been a guiding light in my own life and led me to take the best route forward. As young as age 7, she played softball on a team that traveled nationally. She has played with and competed against the most talented girls around the U.S. including players from the University of Alabama and Illinois. She was diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome at the age of 16, and she has displayed remarkable strength and courage throughout her journey. Her unwavering spirit and refusal to let her condition define her have been a constant source of inspiration. Anyone that doesn’t know her on a personal level has no idea about the daily struggles involved because she masks them so well. At 24 years old, she has already achieved incredible milestones in her life.  She has a degree in Business Management from Kent State University and is currently working on the Integrity Strategy & Planning team at a large corporate organization. This speaks volumes about her commitment, intelligence, and ability to persevere. She constantly reminds me of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.