6 San Diego leaders advocate for health and raise funds critical for fighting heart disease
SAN DIEGO, CA. September 17, 2026 — More than 61% of the U.S. population is expected to have some form of cardiovascular disease by 2050, according to projections from the American Heart Association[1]. As a result, related health costs are expected to triple to $1.8 trillion. Through the Leaders of Impact® campaign, the American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is mobilizing leaders across the country to use their networks to raise awareness and funds to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Launching on Sept. 17 and running through Nov. 4, leaders across the country will begin a seven-week competition to improve health outcomes in their communities. They will leverage their collective influence to educate people on the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR and raise funds that are critical to drive pioneering scientific research and support health and well-being for everyone, everywhere.
“Leaders of Impact brings together leaders who are willing to use their influence for something bigger than themselves,” said Sonia Tucker, volunteer board chair of American Heart Association – San Diego and Vice President of Population Health at San Ysidro Health. “In just seven weeks, they’re driving real change in San Diego, funding research, improving access to care and building a healthier future for our community.”
San Diego’s 2026 Leaders of Impact Nominees are:
- Andrew Johnson, Finance Professional and Community Leader, New York Life
- Ashley Ingram Hutchinson, LCSW, Licensed Psychotherapist
- Patrick Henry, President and CEO, Oculi
- Brenden Justice, Sales Development & Marketing Representative, Intulect
- Melinda Joseph Schober, Chief of Staff and VP of Marketing & Communications, InVitro Capital
- Erica Salcuni, Community Benefit & Health Improvement Manager, Sharp HealthCare
After seven weeks of driving impact, the competition will culminate on November 4. The nominee who raises the most lifesaving funds will be named the San Diego 2026 Leaders of Impact Winner. In addition to local market winners, the changemaker who raises the most nationwide, will be named the American Heart Association’s National Leaders of Impact Winner.
For more information on the Leaders of Impact Initiative or to support one of this year’s nominees, visit San Diego & Southwest Riverside Leaders of Impact - Fall 2026 - Heart Ball - American Heart Association.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Erika Cervantes-Aarons; Erika.Cervantes-Aaro@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
