Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, has been recognized for the 11th time on The NonProfit Times annual Power and Influence Top 50 list, a distinction that honors leaders who have distinguished themselves as initiators and innovators in the nonprofit sector. The recognition comes as Brown celebrates 40 years of service with the organization, having joined the American Heart Association in 1986 in Michigan and risen to the role of CEO in 2008.
Brown’s leadership has been marked by a relentless ability to build impactful partnerships and unite volunteers, supporters, and staff to advance the Association’s mission. Under her tenure, the organization has expanded its global influence in cardiovascular and brain health, accelerated scientific discovery, and launched initiatives such as Go Red for Women and Nation of Lifesavers. The American Heart Association has also launched numerous multi-million-dollar research initiatives and 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.”
Lee Shapiro, American Heart Association volunteer board chair and managing partner at 7wireVentures, praised Brown’s visionary leadership. “Her ability to unite volunteers, staff, supporters and sponsors around bold goals has helped expand the Association’s reach and impact in profound ways,” Shapiro said. “Nancy’s leadership continues to position the American Heart Association to save more lives and create longer, healthier futures for people everywhere.”
The recognition underscores the importance of sustained leadership in the nonprofit sector, particularly in healthcare. Brown’s four decades of service reflect a career dedicated to advancing science, improving care, expanding access to lifesaving education, and inspiring people worldwide to live longer, healthier lives. The NonProfit Times Power and Influence Top 50 list, now in its 29th year, highlights leaders who drive significant change, and Brown’s repeated inclusion signals the lasting impact of her work on both the organization and the broader field of cardiovascular health.
