TUCSON, AZ October 21, 2024 — The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is pleased to announce the appointment of Marc Acuña as the new Executive Director for Southern Arizona. Acuña, with his extensive experience in development and engagement, is eager to drive the AHA’s mission forward in the region.
Acuña joins the AHA following a 15-year successful career at the University of Arizona where he spent the last 12 years in alumni and student engagement at the Arizona Alumni Association and 3 years in national recruitment and high-ability scholar recruitment for the office of Enrollment Management.
As Executive Director, Acuña will lead the AHA’s efforts to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives, overseeing a broad portfolio of initiatives aimed at enhancing heart and brain health. His role encompasses advocating for policy improvements, expanding access to healthcare and nutritious food, advancing research funding, and fostering community engagement. Acuña will also focus on revenue development, volunteer recruitment, and strategic partnerships to address health disparities.
“As the new the Executive Director of Southern Arizona, I’m committed uniting our community to change the future of health. We need to energize each other, come together, and take action to ensure longer, healthier lives for all.” says Acuña. “My vision is to work with local leaders that are passionate change makers like me, always putting people first to drive better outcomes for all.”
“Marc Acuña appointment as Executive Director is a pivotal moment for the American Heart Association in Southern Arizona,” said Shannon MacAdam, Region Vice President, Development and Community Health, American Heart Association. “His extensive background and experience will be invaluable as we work to achieve our vision of reducing heart disease and stroke in Southern Arizona.”
For more information about the American Heart Association’s work in Arizona and how you can get involved, please visit heart.org/Arizona.
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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, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Christopher Calloway, christopher.calloway@heart.org
For Public Inquiries:
1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org