Written by Melani Morose Edelstein
Making an irrefutable impact in the community while embracing the exhilarating chaos of family life, Katy Morris is doing it all. As an active member of the Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA) at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, she’s deeply involved in shaping the future of the community she lives in and fostering connections that matter.
The excitement doesn’t stop there; her home life is just as dynamic. With her toddler, Jackson, already running the show, Katy and her husband, Sam Morris, welcomed their second son, Meyer, in early February. Balancing her passion for her community with the joys of motherhood, Katy’s world is as fulfilling as it is busy.
Sam, a real estate professional with a deep passion for philanthropy, comes from a legacy of both business and giving back. As a trustee on several nonprofit boards, Sam is actively involved in philanthropy and has always been drawn to using his resources and influence to help others—a value he shares with Katy.
In 2020, the couple made a life-changing decision to move to Palos Verdes. It was a time when the world was still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and they were newlyweds with dreams of finding a peaceful place to call home. Despite the uncertainty of the world around them, their move to the area marked a fresh start.
“We absolutely love it here. We moved not knowing anyone—and in the middle of a COVID fog. We were about to get married and had been cooped up in a small place in Santa Monica with a rambunctious dog during the lockdown. One of the few silver linings of that time was the chance to explore new areas. We started hiking and walking around, and that’s when we really fell in love with Palos Verdes. It’s like a little slice of suburban heaven,” Katy reflects.
As they settled into their new life, Katy found what she missed most was connection and community. Though they had a beautiful new home and a peaceful setting, it became clear to her building meaningful relationships was something she longed for. Together Sam and Katy embarked on this next chapter, bringing with them not only their hopes for a new life but also a shared commitment to giving back to their new community.
While she loved her new surroundings, Katy longed to get involved in something bigger—something that would allow her to meet others and contribute to her community. As the daughter of two doctors, Katy felt an instant affinity for Torrance Memorial and its network of health care professionals. She was eager to join an organization where she could not only build relationships but also make a meaningful impact.
That’s when she was introduced to YPPA, a dynamic annual-giving group of young physicians and professionals who support Torrance Memorial’s mission and work to create opportunities for community engagement. YPPA focuses on organizing events, fostering partnerships and providing a platform for individuals who are passionate about both health care and community service. For Katy, it was an immediate fit.
She is one of the most active and dedicated YPPA recruiters, consistently going above and beyond to connect with new members and ensure the continued growth and success of the organization. Her passion for the YPPA mission is contagious, and she is widely respected for her commitment to both the organization and the community.
As a proud member of the YPPA volunteer committee, Katy has helped lead the charge in creating a variety of exciting events that do more than just raise funds. They bring people together, educate the community and foster a deep sense of belonging. These events range from casual meetups, like hikes and trivia nights, to CPR trainings and larger gatherings such as YPPA Casino Night at The Rex and the YPPA Summer Party, which unite professionals and community members for fun and meaningful connections.
Katy’s work has been integral in ensuring YPPA remains a vibrant, inclusive space where people can connect, learn and grow both professionally and personally.
“It’s not just about the events themselves; it’s about the purpose behind them. Being part of YPPA is so much more than just attending events,” Katy explains. “It’s about creating real, lasting connections. For me, it’s about bringing together people who want to make a difference—people who are passionate about their careers and about giving back to their community. That’s what makes YPPA so special.”
"I’ve spoken to so many women in our community who are navigating the ups and downs of motherhood, and I’ve realized there’s a real need for more resources that help us understand our health and well-being,” Katy responds when asked about what she is dreaming about for the future of YPPA. “One possibility I have been talking about is creating empowering events for women, providing them with the tools to live a healthier, more balanced life. With so much information at our fingertips, we have the opportunity to learn directly from the experts at Torrance Memorial.”
Whether it’s learning about prenatal care, wellness after childbirth or general self-care, Katy believes in creating spaces where people feel supported and educated. Having already experienced the high level of care at Cedars-Sinai when she had Jackson, Katy was excited to have Meyer at Torrance Memorial—a place that makes her feel deeply at home.
This personal connection is something that sets Torrance Memorial apart, and it’s one of the things Katy loves most about being part of the hospital’s extended family. She enjoys attending events along with her husband Sam, though he tends to take a more behind-the-scenes role.
“We joined together, but it’s become my thing,” she shares. “He goes to all the events, and I pick his brain.”
Together, they enjoy spending time as a family, whether it’s taking Jackson to the park or enjoying the outdoors with their dog. Katy and Sam look forward to being able to raise their children in a community where they feel supported, connected and empowered.
