HONOLULU, HI, November 18, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, announced new leadership and members for its 2024-25 Hawai’i board of directors. Michael Tanoue, MD, general cardiologist at Queen’s Heart Institute, will serve as board president alongside chairperson, Brandt Farias, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Central Pacific Bank who continues into his second term.

“I am deeply honored to step into the role of President for the American Heart Association’s Board of Directors. I look forward to collaborating with our esteemed board members and leveraging our collective expertise to drive forward the mission into our second century of advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere,” said Dr. Michael Tanoue. “Together, we will continue to pioneer scientific research, advocate for heart health and make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and communities across the islands.”

New board members include: Debleena Dutt, MD, Kaiser Permanente; Nalani Say, Young Brothers; and Jason Thune, Hawaiian Telcom. Returning board members are: Zia Khan, MD, Queen’s Heart Institute; Jason Fujita, HPM Building Supply; Ben Morgan, HMSA; Ben Salazar, Kamehameha Schools; and Dave Underriner, Hawai’i Pacific Health.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our outgoing President, Zia Khan, MD for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication, which have significantly advanced our mission and set a strong foundation for future progress,” added Brandt Farias.

Through the Heart of Hawai’i Heart Ball campaign, Jason Chang, volunteer chairperson and CEO, Queen’s Health Systems will lead community-wide efforts as the 2025 Heart Ball Chair. The Heart Ball celebrates hope and progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the Association’s efforts to impact the community’s health. These efforts include the relentless pursuit of scientific discovery, public policy change, equitable health for the under-resourced and underrepresented and education to equip the community to take control of their help.

“I am honored to serve as the 2025 Heart Ball Chair,” said Jason Chang. “I am eager to work with our outstanding team of volunteers and the Association to drive change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, delivering impactful health education and advocating for healthy policies. It takes a village to make a lasting impact and we must do whatever it takes to create a better tomorrow for all people in Hawai’i.”

The 2025 Heart Ball will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at ‘Alohilani Waikiki Resort. The annual event is a night to celebrate the year-round efforts to break down barriers to health in the community. Throughout the evening, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health, will honor volunteers and patrons, feature stories of survivors and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an exciting auction.

The American Heart Association Hawai’i serves all Hawai’i islands and communities. Through their collective reach, these volunteers will lead the organization in pursuit of its mission of being a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

For more information about the American Heart Association in Hawai’i, visit Hawaiʻi | 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. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:

Megan Davidson: 701-741-9188; megan.davidson@heart.org

heart.org and stroke.org