AUSTIN, July 17, 2024 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced today that Ann Jerome will be rejoining the Austin office as interim executive director for the Austin market.
Jerome was executive director at the American Heart Association-Austin from 2014-2017 and brings experience from a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in leadership roles at various non-profit organizations including Ronald McDonald House Charities in Kansas City and Make-A-Wish Central and South Texas, where she served most recently as president and CEO.
“Ann is known for fostering cultures of collaboration and trust, leading to cohesive and high-performing teams that achieve transformative goals while enjoying the journey,” said Jamie Johnson, region senior vice president for development and community health for the Association.
“For a 100 years, the American Heart Association has passionately fought to lower the impact of heart disease and stroke,” Jerome said. “I’m proud to be back at the helm of the American Heart Association in Austin and use my voice in support of our mission.”
Jerome is originally from New Orleans and received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Memphis along with advanced management and leadership studies at the Kellogg Institute. An Austinite since 2008, she and her husband, Brad, have two grown sons. Jerome is also a board member for the Texas Book Festival and enjoys playing tennis, being in the outdoors and travelling.
The Austin office celebrated a banner year in 2023-24, raising more than $1.5 million from its core events: CycleNation, Heart Ball, Heart Walk and Go Red for Women.
For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves are fueled by our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But these gains have not been shared equitably. Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Asian American, Pacific Islander and LGBTQ+ people have suffered and died disproportionately. So have people in historically underrepresented communities all over the country. With Bold Hearts™ and powered by science, we pledge to work relentlessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health and ensure equitable health in every community.
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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, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: M 479.263.8473; cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org