American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown Recognized as Top Nonprofit Leader

DALLAS - July 30, 2026 - Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, has been recognized as one of the most influential leaders in healthcare, being named to The NonProfit Times 29th annual Power and Influence Top 50. This marks the 11th time the publication has honored Brown for her leadership, which has driven significant economic and health impacts in Texas and beyond.

Brown's professional journey with the American Heart Association began in 1986 in Michigan. In July 2026, the Association celebrates her 40 years of service and leadership advancing its lifesaving mission. She ascended to the role of CEO in 2008, earning a reputation for building impactful partnerships and uniting volunteers, supporters, and staff. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its global influence in cardiovascular and brain health, accelerated scientific discovery, advanced quality improvement programs, strengthened advocacy for healthier communities, elevated women's health through Go Red for Women, and launched lifesaving initiatives such as Nation of Lifesavers.

The organization has successfully launched numerous multi-million-dollar research initiatives that are changing the future of heart and brain health for patients and communities. Today, the American Heart Association is the largest non-governmental funder of cardiovascular research in the United States. This recognition underscores the economic impact of the nonprofit sector in Texas, where the Association's headquarters and initiatives drive job creation, research funding, and community health programs.

“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 bold vision has resulted in measurable progress for communities worldwide. Lee Shapiro, American Heart Association volunteer board chair and managing partner at the investment firm 7wireVentures, said, “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 Texas businesses and organizations, Brown's leadership demonstrates how nonprofit collaboration with corporate partners can drive economic growth. The American Heart Association's research funding and health initiatives contribute to a healthier workforce, reducing healthcare costs and improving productivity. The recognition also highlights the importance of nonprofit leadership in shaping public policy and community health, which directly impacts the business environment in Texas.

For more information, visit The NonProfit Times Power and Influence Top 50. Brown's four decades of service reflect a career dedicated to advancing science, improving care, and inspiring people around the world to live longer, healthier lives.