Debra Pledger-Fonte
Debra served as the IAHPC Membership Benefits Coordinator, where she implemented tasks and activities related to membership benefits and responsibilities. She collaborated with the Executive Director to assist national associations in obtaining financial support for their conferences. She also prepared and maintained reports on member participation and engagement in projects and programs. From July 2022 to January 2026, she served as the IAHPC Memberships Coordinator.
Debra’s previous experience with hospice and palliative care began in 2007 when she started working at the Institute for Palliative Medicine at San Diego Hospice. She provided administrative support for research and grants and worked in the international arena as the program coordinator for the International Leadership Development Initiative through both San Diego Hospice and OhioHealth.
Debra studied Kinesiology at San Diego State University and is expected to complete her bachelor’s degree in May 2026. She plans to test to obtain her credentials through the National Academy of Sports Medicine to become a certified Fitness Instructor. She intends to use her certification to work with women caregivers of hospice patients as well as older women. She enjoys being physically active year-round thanks to the wonderful weather in San Diego, California.