Katie & Ron Capitulo founded the Fairy Godmother Foundation of New York, Inc.® in 2017. Married for 53 years, they have both had illustrious careers in healthcare. They met Linda Shohatee, the inspiration for the foundation, in 2000 – after their daughter Melissa took care of Linda on a Transplant Unit while working as a Child Life Assistant during her summer break from nursing school. During the latter part of her life, Linda spent nearly every weekend, holiday, and vacation with the Capitulo family, along with their children Valerie & Dana, Melissa, and Andrew & Samantha; and their grandchildren Collin, Fiona and Liam. Linda was a constant companion, presence, and part of the family for major life events – at celebrations, births, and weddings.
Nearly 10 years ago, moved by the life of Linda Shohatee, Katie and Ron transformed the simple idea of “making dreams come true” into a thriving foundation that has supported more than 400 children and young adults living with complex medical needs. Collaborating with a group of close friends and colleagues who became the founding Board of Directors, the Fairy Godmother Foundation of New York, Inc. ® was born. Their vision, heart, and unwavering dedication continue to shape the Foundation’s mission and inspire those who tend to it.
Dr. Katie Capitulo is a nationally recognized hospital nurse executive, educator, researcher, professor, and nonprofit leader whose career has been devoted to advancing compassionate care for vulnerable populations and empowering families and staff. Katie has served as an Advanced Practice Clinical Nurse Specialist, Director of a major Children’s and Women’s Hospital in New York City, and Chief Nurse Executive for leading academic medical centers in New York. She has also served on the boards of local, national, and international nursing associations and nonprofits, including the American Red Cross, NYONEL, AWHONN, and WCET™ and sits on the editorial boards of major nursing and interprofessional journals. She is the President of the Foundation’s Board, Chair of its Dream Committee, and the pro-bono executive director… but most importantly, Katie was Linda’s Fairy Godmother.
Ron Capitulo, a healthcare professional, worked as a laboratory scientist in New York City hospitals and as a volunteer director of a Home Care Program. Ron also built successful subsequent careers as a Realtor and Financial Tax Adviser. For nearly a decade, Ron has served as the pro-bono bookkeeper for the Foundation, working with the Queens College non-profit MBA program and faculty to set up the foundation’s accounting system. His leadership, generosity, and hands-on involvement has helped build a strong network of donors who share in his commitment to giving children living with complex medical needs opportunities for hope and joy through unforgettable experiences.
Katie & Ron’s devotion to the Foundation—their favorite charity—continues to elevate its mission and ensure that every dream granted reflects compassion, dignity, and love.
