The American Heart Association Regional Office in Huntsville, Alabama is working to advance heart health across the community.

One of its key efforts is the Leaders of Impact campaign, which unites passionate and community-minded leaders dedicated to making a lasting difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

According to the American Heart Association, “heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally.”

Over the course of seven weeks, each leader works to raise awareness and critical funds to support the AHA’s mission of ensuring every person has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life.

The last day to support the campaign is Wednesday, November 5, 2025.

These changemakers are using their voices, networks, and resources to inspire others and drive impact in the Rocket City. Their efforts directly support lifesaving research, health education, and community initiatives right here in Huntsville and across the nation.

The 2025 Leaders of Impact Chair, Donna Burns of REMAX Today, said, “As chairperson for this year’s Leaders of Impact, I am so impressed with the nine leaders we have chosen. They will be such effective ambassadors for the American Heart Association and all the important work being done in heart health. I can’t wait to see what we achieve!”

The 2025 AHA Huntsville Leaders of Impact are:

Emily Burnside: REMAX Today
Clark Dunn: Podcaster
Morgan Gehrdes: HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Migdalia Gomez: Social Media Consultant and Travel Agent
John Mark McClelland: Merit Bank
Angela May: CB&S Bank
Kaitlynn Roark: Libertas Technologies
Andrew Smith: Huntsville Explorer
David Warren: Radiance Technologies

At the end of the campaign, one individual is named Huntsville’s Leader of Impact, but together, every participant plays a vital role in creating healthier tomorrows for all.

The winner of this campaign will be announced at the 2026 Huntsville Heart Ball. This fundraising event will be held at the Von Braun Center on Saturday, April 11 at 5:30 p.m.

This year’s Huntsville Heart Ball, held in April, was a record-breaking event and fully sold out.

The Huntsville Regional AHA office also holds a yearly Heart Walk to raise funds for the organization. Next year’s walk will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The location is to be determined.

Anyone interested in participating can sign up to start or join a team. Individuals can also participate without joining a group.

Visit the AHA’s Heart Walk website to register or learn more.