CHARLOTTE, NC July 12, 2024 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, has announced new officers and members for the 2024-25 Southeast Board of Directors. Serving from the Greater Charlotte area are Sandra E. Burke, Ph.D., FAHA, Neil Blinde and Gary Michel.
Dr. Burke will continue to serve as the Board’s president for the second year of her term. A cardiovascular physiologist with more than 40 years research experience in the pharmaceutical industry, retired as director of cardiovascular biology research at Abbott Laboratories. Her expertise in cardiovascular disease ranges from the vascular biology of restenosis to the treatment of congestive heart failure. Her research helped create drug-coated stents. She is the author of more than 75 publications and abstracts in scientific journals and has coauthored seven book chapters. Burke has been involved with the American Heart Association in various capacities at the national, state and local level for more than 20 years and lives in Monroe.
“I am proud and privileged to serve as president of the Southeast Region of the American Heart Association, working with the board to promote cardiovascular wellness through science, education, diversity and advocacy,” said Burke. “I look forward to our board having an impact on issues that plague historically excluded communities across the region, including Black maternal health, as well as advocating to enact legislation that affects all who suffer from cardiovascular diseases.”
The Southeast Board of Directors also includes local Charlotte community leaders Neil Blinde, president, Commercial Banking, Capital One, and Gary Michel, independent director, author and former chief executive officer, JELD-WEN in Charlotte.
Serving as the 2024-25 board’s chair, Shelly Church, CFP, a retired senior vice president of Investments at Raymond James Financial from southwest Florida, lost her son Kyle at the age of 18 to heart disease. Church, a longtime advocate for the mission of the Association, will serve alongside Board President Dr. Sandra Burke, President-Elect Andre McShan, M.D. and Chair-Elect Alexander Almazan.
Other SE regional board members include Gul H. Dadlani, M.D., Angelica Geter, Dr. P.H., M.P.H., Kristen F. Gradney, M.H.A., RDN, LDN, Michael E. Hall, M.D., M.S., Adrian F. Hernandez, M.D., M.H.S., Daniel Munoz, M.D. M.P.A., Evelio Rodriguez, M.D., FACS, FACC, Valerie Wanza, Ph.D. and Lance Zingale.
The American Heart Association Southeast region services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Puerto Rico. Board members will assist the organization in guiding efforts to reduce the incidences of heart disease and stroke, the Nos. 1 and 5 leading causes of death, respectively, of American men and women.
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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. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Lynn Grayson
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org