Dallas, TX — Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, has been recognized as one of the most influential leaders in healthcare by being named to The NonProfit Times 29th annual Power and Influence Top 50 list. This marks the 11th time the publication has honored Brown for her leadership, which has driven significant expansion in the organization's global influence and impact.
Brown's professional journey with the American Heart Association began in 1986 in Michigan, and July 2026 marks her 40 years of service. She became CEO in 2008, earning a reputation for building impactful partnerships and uniting volunteers, supporters, and staff to advance the Association's mission. Under her leadership, the organization has accelerated scientific discovery, advanced quality improvement programs, strengthened advocacy for healthier communities, elevated women's health through Go Red for Women, and launched initiatives like Nation of Lifesavers. The American Heart Association is now the largest non-governmental funder of cardiovascular research in the United States.
"Being recognized alongside other remarkable leaders is truly an honor, especially as I reflect on 40 years of service to the American Heart Association," said Brown. "It is my greatest honor to continue to serve this mission after four decades. I am deeply grateful for the colleagues, mentors, volunteers, supporters, patients, survivors and staff who have been part of this journey, and I am excited to see the impact we will continue to make together."
Brown's vision has resulted in measurable progress for communities worldwide. Lee Shapiro, American Heart Association volunteer board chair and managing partner at 7wireVentures, noted, "Nancy's 40 years of service are a testament to the kind of visionary, mission-centered leadership that moves organizations — and entire fields — forward. Her ability to unite volunteers, staff, supporters and sponsors around bold goals has helped expand the Association's reach and impact in profound ways."
For more information, visit The NonProfit Times Power and Influence Top 50. Additional resources are available on the American Heart Association website and follow AHA/ASA news on X at @HeartNews.
