Katie’s Story
"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
~ Winston Churchill
Katie’s Story
"Katie's love for children was infectious. She had a way of bringing out the best in every child she met." ~ a friend
Katherine Grace Hartnett, known lovingly as Katie, was born on June 2, 1998, in Burlington, Vermont. From her first day of life, Katie brought joy to all with her big, beautiful eyes and her extraordinary ability to observe and understand the world around her.
Katie attended Burlington public schools before earning her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) from St. Michael's College. Her dedication to education was evident in her work as a paraeducator in a kindergarten classroom at Champlain Elementary School, where she was known for her passion and ability to connect with children.
Katie's impact on her community extended far beyond the classroom. She was particularly attuned to Burlington's homeless population and was the driving force behind many humanitarian initiatives supported by her father during his time on the Burlington City Council. Katie's empathy and understanding made her a powerful advocate, speaking poignantly and eloquently on behalf of the homeless to the City Council.
Sports played a significant role in Katie's life. She participated in field hockey, basketball, and golf, with basketball being her favorite. Known for her determination, teamwork, and intelligence, Katie's "Katie Three" became legendary during home games. Her athletic achievements were recognized with several awards, including the Booster’s Award for Character and Leadership.
Tragically, Katie passed away on July 15, 2023, in a drowning accident at the Huntington Gorge. Her loss has left a void in the hearts of many, but her spirit lives on through the kindness her namesake Foundation is spreading.
More About Katie
Katherine Grace Hartnett, born June 2, 1998, in Burlington, Vermont, was a dedicated educator, compassionate advocate for the homeless, and talented athlete. She was well known for her empathy and leadership, teaching, humanitarian work, and sports. Her life, while tragically cut short on July 15, 2023, lives on through the kindness her namesake foundation is spreading.
A Demonstration of Katie’s Kindness
(a post from a friend)
I’m at a loss of words.
I just saw you!
You just hugged me in city hall thinking I was your friend you went out to the bars with. When you realized it was me you gave me that full face smile of yours and we told each other we loved one another... I never thought that'd be the last time. We'd go days, months even years without keeping in touch and somehow someway wed always find our way back to one another. I'm going to miss your calls at 2am. You knew any time of day or night u could call and I'd be there and help as best I could, as you were for me. I needed help and friend this past winter at 3am and who of all ppl after not being in touch for over 6 months answered my call and tried to help...Katie. when I first met u I was sober, homeless, an sleeping outside ( no one at work truly knew the extent of my homelessness but you did) we both were working at 99 then an you went out of your way to make sure I was okay every damn day. Within weeks, maybe a month of knowing one another you even made it possible for me to get off the street and into my own studio apartment. I saved enough money and no one would rent to me because of my past but u saw past that, you saw me for who I was, and you opened your heart to me. You went to great lengths to help me, to the extent of coordinating with your father to assist me get that studio apt... because that's what you did. Your heart was bigger than your body and the love you shared was unconditional. If one could count, in miles the compassion and kindness that you put forth onto others...you’d win every marathon in history...that's an understatement. I'm lucky to have known you and to have been friends with you.
R.I.P. My love, may your smile shine brighter then ever, and your soul sparkle the brightest in the night sky...till we meet again.
