FAYETTEVILLE Ark., March 9, 2026 — The American Heart Association–Northwest Arkansas celebrated a milestone at the 2026 Northwest Arkansas Heart Ball, raising more than $1 million for the first time in event history. The achievement was powered in part by the 2025–26 Northwest Arkansas Leaders of Impact campaign, which brought together an extraordinary group of changemakers who collectively raised more than $100,000 to advance the Association’s mission.

More than 950 guests filled the Rogers Convention Center ballroom on Feb. 14 for a night of impact, inspiration and community support aimed at improving heart and brain health across the region. Part of the Association’s Heart of NWA campaign, the annual gala featured a cocktail hour, elegant dinner, live and silent auctions and the presentation of the 2026 class of Northwest Arkansas Sweethearts. Event co-chairs were Kristin Piper, Whitney Cooper and Ryland Allen of Walmart, along with Sherene Jagla of Kenvue.

This year’s program highlighted the courageous journey of Thomas Gray Lindsey, a Springdale child whose battle with congenital heart defects began before birth. His story underscored the lifesaving importance of research, advanced pediatric cardiac care and ongoing investment in congenital heart defect (CHD) science.

Forty Sweethearts participated in months of heart-healthy education, community service and advocacy, collectively raising more than $190,000 for the American Heart Association. Their efforts — combined with support from individuals and sponsors including The Emerson Group, Bayer Healthcare, Force Factor, Haleon, Kenvue, Simply Good Foods and Walmart — contributed significantly to the record‑setting total.

Nine NWA Leaders of Impact nominees dedicated seven weeks to driving awareness, engagement and critical fundraising across the region. This year’s nominees were Tim Anglea, Gabi Caceres and Samantha Link of Walmart; Monika Eisenhut of Kenvue; Mark Hamrick of Prestige Consumer Healthcare; Jose Raul Hernandez of Bayer Healthcare; Amy Koch of Revelyst; Mindy Munoz Smith of Hain Celestial; and Adam Stephens of The Hatchery Group. Anglea and Eisenhut were named this year’s Leaders of Impact winners.

Entertainment for the evening included a high‑energy performance by Rock & Roll Dueling Pianos from Nashville, Tennessee, which also headlined the after‑party. Emcees Dan Skoff and Ashlyn Brothers of KNWA guided guests throughout the night.

“This event is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together,” said cochair Sherene Jagla. “The generosity of this community fuels groundbreaking research, strengthens prevention efforts and creates a healthier future for every family in Northwest Arkansas.”

Donations to the Heart Ball may be made through June at www.heart.org/nwaheartball. Sponsorship opportunities for the 2027 Heart Ball are available from Andi Clinton at Andi.Clinton@heart.org. Girls who wish to join the NWA Sweetheart class of 2026-27 should contact Kaley Baxendale at Kaley.Baxendale@heart.org.

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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 100 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 or X by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org