BALTIMORE, Dec. 13, 2024 — Melody Johnson Morales, a Social Science Research Analyst at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families, has been named the American Heart Association’s Greater Maryland 2024 Leaders of Impact™ winner for her work driving equitable cardiovascular health in the community.

In Maryland, life expectancy by ZIP code can vary by as much as 20 years,[1] which can often be caused by social drivers of health, deeply rooted inequities related to public policies, institutional practices, cultural representations and other norms which often reinforce inequities in health.

“Melody and all of our nominees' steadfast efforts are helping to ensure everyone across the State of Maryland has equitable opportunities for a longer, healthier life,” said Larry L. Johnson, chairman of the American Heart Association’s Baltimore and Greater Maryland division Board of Directors. “By ensuring access to quality healthcare and addressing health disparities we are strengthening our collective future, creating a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come.”

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. In addition, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease by 2050, according to new published projections from the American Heart Association. 

Over the course of seven weeks Dr. Morales participated in a fundraising competition alongside four other Baltimore area professionals. She was named the 2024 Leaders of Impact winner after raising the most funds.

“Taking part in Leaders of Impact was personal for me because I have high blood pressure myself, which can lead to cardiovascular problems,” Dr. Morales said. “Being able to do my part in supporting the American Heart Association by raising awareness, raising funds for lifesaving research, and working to ensure everyone has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life was important to me.”

For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has driven change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, educating health care professionals and patients, and advocating for healthy policies. In Baltimore and Greater Maryland, the Association is specifically focused on improving nutrition security, community readiness through CPR awareness and addressing hypertension in at-risk populations.

Leaders of Impact launched on Oct. 17 in hundreds of cities across the nation and culminated on Dec. 4. Each nominee’s participation is focused on opportunities to be a changemaker with a shared purpose to raise critical awareness and fund the mission of the American Heart Association.

Other local nominees included: 

  • Maria-Paz Barrientos, Senior Executive Public Sector and Nonprofit Consulting
  • Jean-Claude Fresnel, Jr., Lenserf & Company, Inc.
  • Mechelle Johnson-Webb, Esq., MPH., Federal Government
  • Tamira Muir, The Muir Group HR Consulting Firm

Dr. Morales, who was nominated by last year's Greater Maryland Leaders of Impact runner-up April R. Randall, Esq., will be recognized at the Heart of Maryland event in Baltimore this spring.

For more information about Leaders of Impact and a list of all the 2024 nominees, please visit leadersofimpact.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. 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:

Wayne Carter, wayne.carter@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org