Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, has been named to The NonProfit Times 29th annual Power and Influence Top 50, marking the 11th time the publication has recognized her leadership. The list honors leaders who have distinguished themselves as initiators and innovators in the nonprofit sector. This recognition coincides with Brown's 40th anniversary at the organization, which began with her joining the Association in 1986 in Michigan.
Under Brown's leadership since 2008, the American Heart Association has significantly expanded its global influence in cardiovascular and brain health. Her tenure has seen the acceleration of scientific discovery, advancement of quality improvement programs, and strengthened advocacy for healthier communities. Notable initiatives include the Go Red for Women movement, which elevated women's health, and the Nation of Lifesavers program. The organization also launched numerous multi-million-dollar research initiatives that are reshaping heart and brain health outcomes. Today, the American Heart Association is the largest non-governmental funder of cardiovascular research in the United States.
Brown's ability to build impactful partnerships and unite volunteers, supporters, and staff has been central to her success. Lee Shapiro, volunteer board chair of the American Heart Association 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."
Reflecting on her recognition, Brown stated, "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 inclusion in the Power and Influence Top 50 underscores her lasting impact on the nonprofit healthcare landscape. The American Heart Association continues to drive breakthroughs in science, policy, and care, supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally. For more information about the Association's work, visit the American Heart Association website.
