Kallie Schmeisser joined Thorn Run Partners in 2026, bringing a background in health care, research, and communications to her role as a Legislative Assistant. She supports the firm’s health policy practice, tracking legislative and regulatory developments, conducting policy research, and assisting with client communications and advocacy efforts. Her work focuses on understanding emerging health policy issues and helping clients navigate the evolving federal health policy landscape.

Prior to joining Thorn Run, Kallie gained experience working across health care and nonprofit organizations, including at Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center, a federally qualified community health center serving patients in central Connecticut. Her experiences working with underserved populations in community-based health care sparked a particular interest in behavioral health policy, with a focus on improving access to affordable, high-quality care. She also gained research experience at Vanderbilt University, examining the impact of substance use on children’s cognitive outcomes, while developing a foundation in marketing and strategy through roles with Vanderbilt Athletics and various nonprofit organizations.

She graduated from Vanderbilt University where she earned her bachelor’s degree, double majoring in Cognitive Studies and Medicine, Health, and Society, with a minor in Art History. Originally from Connecticut, Kallie is enjoying getting to know D.C., particularly its coffee shops, museums, and arts scene.