Heartfelt Leadership: American Heart Association’s CEO On Legacy and Future

In a recent conversation with TIME CEO Jessica Sibley, Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, shared insights into the nonprofit’s century-long journey and its vision for the future. As the Association marks its 100th anniversary, Brown reflected on the organization’s evolution from its humble beginnings to becoming a leading force in cardiovascular health.

Founded in 1924, the American Heart Association began at a time when heart attack and stroke patients had little hope for recovery. Over the past century, the association has played a pivotal role in halving the death rate from cardiovascular disease in the U.S., thanks to advances in medical science, public health policies, and consumer health awareness and education.

Leading a nonprofit with such a vital mission requires a human-centered approach to leadership. With 40 million volunteers, donors and supporters, the Association operates with the efficiency and innovation of a for-profit corporation while mobilizing a vast network of passionate advocates. “Leading a nonprofit is an amazing honor,” Brown said. “Every day, we live to serve people–that is the mission of the American Heart Association. The reason we exist is to help individual people live longer and healthier lives.”

A cornerstone of Brown’s leadership is her commitment to health equity—ensuring every person has the opportunity for good health and well-being. This focus is evident in the organization’s long-standing efforts to address disparities in cardiovascular health. From championing patient protections in the Affordable Care Act to tackling social drivers of health including access to nutritious food and quality systems of care, the Association strives to remove barriers to equitable health. “The end state for us is knowing that every person everywhere has an equal opportunity for better health and well-being and that any circumstances that might stand in the way of that equality are removed,” said Brown.

Lack of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training and resources is an equitable health issue. Women, as well as Black and Hispanic adults, are substantially less likely to receive bystander CPR. The American Heart Association is leading the effort to build a “Nation of Lifesavers” so anyone, anywhere is prepared to perform CPR. “Through our science, brand, and grassroots footprint, we have the unique capacity and capability to educate and train anyone to take action and save a life,” Brown said.

Women’s health has been a strategic priority for the Association for more than two decades, particularly through the Go Red for Women® movement. The organization advocates for more funding and research dedicated to women, clinical tools tailored to women’s unique health needs, and increased innovation. A significant recent example is the Association’s new $75 million Go Red for Women Venture Fund, which will accelerate groundbreaking support for women’s health innovation.

Public policy is another critical area in which the American Heart Association has made significant strides. Advocating for smoke-free environments and promoting healthier school meals are two of the many ways policy initiatives have had a profound impact on public health. Brown recalled the pivotal role the organization played in banning smoking on domestic flights in 1988, and the ripple effect of the ban since. “When the ban took effect, people began to better understand the threats of smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke to their health,” explains Brown. “As a direct result, we saw death rates from cardiovascular disease plummet because we know smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are among the key risk factors for having a heart attack or stroke.”

Around the globe, the Association has a presence in nearly 100 countries, promoting CPR training, improving hospital care, and serving as a trusted scientific resource. The organization’s international efforts are crucial given cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Additionally, the American Heart Association collaborates with the World Health Organization on initiatives that improve systems of care in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

All of the American Heart Association’s efforts around the world and the country are driven by the organization’s mission: to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Looking to the future, Brown’s greatest wish is for all the advancements in science and technology to benefit everyone equitably, creating a healthier, more hopeful world. As the American Heart Association embarks on its next century, it remains dedicated to providing health and hope for everyone, everywhere. “Our future is about improving yours,” said Brown.

---

View this Time Magazine article CLICK HERE