ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 5, 2026 — The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, announced that Gul Dadlani, M.D., and Jon Reitz will continue serving on the Southeast Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 fiscal year.

Dr. Dadlani serves as vice president, chief partnership officer and medical director of international medicine at Nemours Children's Health, Florida. A longtime advocate for cardiovascular health, he previously served as president of the American Heart Association's Orlando board and has championed efforts to prevent sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes.

"It is an honor to continue serving on the American Heart Association’s Southeast Board," said Dr. Dadlani. "Improving heart health requires collaboration, innovation and unwavering commitment, and I'm proud to work alongside fellow leaders dedicated to creating healthier communities and saving lives."

Joining Dr. Dadlani for another term is Jon Reitz, regional vice president of Walgreens. Reitz is a dedicated American Heart Association volunteer leader who previously served as president of the Association's Orlando board and chaired the 2020 Greater Orlando Heart Walk. Through his volunteer leadership, he has helped advance the Association's mission through community engagement, fundraising and advocacy.

"I am proud and privileged to continue serving on the Southeast Board of Directors for the American Heart Association," said Reitz. "I look forward to expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships with volunteers and supporting the philanthropic efforts that make our lifesaving work possible."

The American Heart Association Southeast region serves Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Puerto Rico. As members of the Southeast Board of Directors, Dadlani and Reitz will help guide strategic efforts to improve cardiovascular health, advance health equity and reduce the impact of heart disease and stroke across the region.

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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:  

Emory Parkins, emory.parkins@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) 

heart.org and stroke.org