Leadership Spotlight: Kathryn Pagliaroli M’09 – From ICU Nurse to C-Suite Changemaker

Born to take care and take charge, Pagliaroli sharpened her strategic acumen through Keuka College’s M.S. in Management – recently relaunched as our M.S. in Leadership.


Monday, April 27, 2026

Today, in the C-suite at Oswego Health, Kathryn Pagliaroli ’09 is leading a growing medical system into a new era of innovation. 

“One thing managers need to understand is that leadership is a discipline,” she said. “You might have a natural inclination toward leading people, but it requires study and practice.” 

Pagliaroli first joined Oswego Health as an ICU nurse, and she discovered KC’s program at a pivotal point in her transition from bedside care to management. Several promotions later, she now serves as chief nursing officer and chief operating officer of the 18-location system.

Smiling woman with shoulder-length dark hair wearing a light floral blouse, photographed against a plain light background.

“My Keuka College experience really strengthened my ability to view the system from multiple angles – legal, branding, human capital – and to make decisions that are grounded in the best and latest research.” 

Kathryn Pagliaroli M’09

Her advice to medical workers contemplating their next career move? “Just start. We need people who care deeply in senior management as well as on the frontlines. So, invest in yourself and your capacity for serving others.” 

TAKE THE NEXT STEP 

With two career-focused tracks – Management and Healthcare – Keuka College’s 100% online M.S. in Leadership is built for busy working professionals who are ready to lead with purpose. Find out more today.