The NonProfit Times has named Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, to its 29th annual Power and Influence Top 50 list, marking the 11th time the publication has recognized her leadership. The Power and Influence Top 50 honors leaders who have distinguished themselves as initiators and innovators in the nonprofit sector. Brown’s recognition comes as she celebrates 40 years of service with the American Heart Association, having joined the organization in 1986 in Michigan.
Since becoming CEO in 2008, Brown has expanded the Association’s global influence in cardiovascular and brain health, accelerated scientific discovery, and advanced quality improvement programs. Under her leadership, the organization launched initiatives such as Go Red for Women and Nation of Lifesavers. The 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, volunteer board chair of the American Heart Association and managing partner at 7wireVentures, praised Brown’s leadership. “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.”
Brown’s recognition underscores the importance of sustained, visionary leadership in the nonprofit sector, particularly in healthcare. Her work has strengthened advocacy for healthier communities, elevated women’s health, and improved care through quality improvement programs, positioning the American Heart Association to save more lives globally.
