American Heart Association Executive and Leadership Team

Sandy Hightower, the Chief Executive Officer at American Heart Association, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Hightower guides the implementation of initiatives aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease and stroke, aligning all departments with the core mission. This leadership involves fostering partnerships and ensuring the organization's impact across the United States. Overseeing the strategic direction, Sandy Hightower drives the advancement of research funding and consumer education programs. The Chief Executive Officer ensures that all activities contribute to the ultimate goal of building healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of public health challenges and the organizational capacity to address them effectively, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth in critical public health efforts.

Laura Sol, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Executive Officer at American Heart Association, provides strategic support and facilitates the execution of key initiatives. Sol manages critical projects, coordinates cross-functional teams, and ensures alignment between the CEO's vision and organizational operations. This leadership role involves enhancing communication and driving efficiency across departments. By optimizing the CEO's workflow and strategic focus, Laura Sol directly contributes to advancing the mission of reducing cardiovascular disease and stroke. The Chief of Staff ensures that organizational priorities are effectively addressed and that strategic objectives are met. Sol's role is pivotal in translating high-level strategy into actionable plans for nationwide impact.

Cynthia Roberts, the Chief Financial Officer at American Heart Association, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. Roberts oversees the organization's fiscal health, ensuring responsible stewardship of funds dedicated to cardiovascular research and public health initiatives. This leadership role involves managing budgets, investments, and financial compliance to maximize the impact of donations. By implementing robust financial controls, Cynthia Roberts ensures that resources are effectively allocated to support the mission of reducing cardiovascular disease and stroke. The Chief Financial Officer provides critical financial insights to guide strategic decision-making and maintain organizational sustainability. Roberts's expertise safeguards the integrity of the organization's financial operations across the United States.

Suzie Upton, the Chief Operating Officer at American Heart Association, manages the day-to-day operations and ensures efficient resource allocation across the organization. Upton oversees the implementation of strategic plans, optimizing internal processes to support research, education, and advocacy efforts. This leadership role involves directing operational infrastructure and ensuring seamless execution of programs nationwide. By streamlining operational workflows, Suzie Upton enhances the organization's capacity to fund cardiovascular research and promote healthy living. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that all operational activities align with the mission to reduce disability and deaths from cardiovascular disease and stroke. Upton's focus on operational excellence supports the organization's broad reach and impact across the United States.

Judith Kleinberg, the President & Palo Alto & Stanford, Go RED Luncheon, Silicon Valley Co-Chair at American Heart Association, spearheads regional fundraising and awareness efforts in the Silicon Valley area. Kleinberg leads initiatives such as the Go RED Luncheon, driving engagement and support for cardiovascular health programs. This leadership role involves mobilizing community leaders and volunteers to advance the organization's mission. By fostering local partnerships, Judith Kleinberg enhances the reach of educational campaigns and research funding in the region. The Co-Chair ensures that Silicon Valley's contributions significantly impact the national effort to reduce cardiovascular disease and stroke. Kleinberg's dedication strengthens the organization's presence and impact in this key geographic area.

Kate FitzPatrick, the President of the Board of Directors at American Heart Association, provides strategic oversight and governance for the organization. FitzPatrick guides the Board in setting the long-term vision and ensuring fiduciary responsibility, aligning all activities with the mission to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke. This leadership role involves collaborating with executive leadership to drive organizational effectiveness and impact. By championing the organization's strategic priorities, Kate FitzPatrick ensures sustained progress in research funding and public health education. The President of the Board of Directors plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the American Heart Association's operations nationwide. FitzPatrick's leadership ensures robust governance and strategic direction.

Evelina Grayver, the President of the AHA Board of Directors In Long Island at American Heart Association, directs regional board activities and community engagement initiatives. Grayver leads efforts to advance the organization's mission within the Long Island area, focusing on local health education and fundraising. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders and volunteers to support cardiovascular health. By driving local advocacy and awareness, Evelina Grayver enhances the impact of programs aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease and stroke. The President of the AHA Board of Directors In Long Island ensures that regional efforts align with national objectives. Grayver's commitment strengthens the organization's presence and effectiveness in the Long Island community.

Christopher Kelly, the Board President at American Heart Association, provides strategic leadership and governance to the organization's board. Kelly guides the board's deliberations, ensuring alignment with the mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. This leadership role involves fostering collaboration among board members and with executive leadership to advance organizational goals. By overseeing strategic planning and policy development, Christopher Kelly ensures the effective allocation of resources towards research and public health initiatives. The Board President plays a critical part in maintaining the organization's commitment to reducing disability and deaths caused by cardiovascular disease and stroke. Kelly's governance ensures the continued success and impact of the American Heart Association.

Jonathan Ross, the Chief Marketing Officer at American Heart Association, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to amplify the organization's mission. Ross oversees all brand messaging, public awareness campaigns, and digital engagement efforts designed to educate consumers on healthy living and promote cardiac care. This leadership role involves driving audience growth and ensuring consistent communication across all platforms. By developing innovative outreach programs, Jonathan Ross enhances the visibility of critical research funding and advocacy efforts. The Chief Marketing Officer ensures that marketing initiatives directly support the reduction of cardiovascular disease and stroke, fostering a culture of health and wellness nationwide. Ross's strategic vision translates complex health information into accessible campaigns that resonate with diverse communities.

Kay Wilson, the Chief Human Resources Officer at American Heart Association, leads all human capital strategies and talent management initiatives. Wilson oversees the development and implementation of policies that support a diverse and engaged workforce dedicated to the organization's mission. This leadership role involves fostering a positive organizational culture and ensuring compliance with labor laws. By attracting and retaining top talent, Kay Wilson strengthens the organization's capacity to fund research and promote healthy living. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that human resources functions align with strategic goals, supporting the reduction of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Wilson's commitment to employee well-being and development is integral to the organization's success.