NASHVILLE, March 7, 2024 — C. Wright Pinson, MBA, MD, was honored with the Martin E. Simmons Award at the 50th Anniversary Middle Tennessee Heart Gala on February 17, hosted by the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all. The Gala, held at the Country Music Hall of Fame, united the Association’s supporters to raise funds, celebrate milestones and honor heroes like Dr. Pinson.
The Martin E. Simmons Award recognizes those who have made a significant impact on the Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
The Heart of Middle Tennessee Heart Gala campaign celebrates collective success in driving change, funding science and improving behaviors.
Vanderbilt has received nearly $100 million total in American Heart Association research funding, which fuels discoveries and advancements in cardiovascular medicine locally, nationally and globally. These funds impact the local economy, which, as a result, is infused with more researchers and innovators.
“For our local American Heart Association team, Dr. Pinson has served as a foundational bedrock, helping support and grow our Board leadership, chairing fundraising efforts, serving as a champion for our education and awareness and supporting our policy movements,” said Annie Thornhill, executive director of the Middle Tennessee American Heart Association. “Whether he is playing drums with his band at our events, walking with his team, serving as a member of Cor Vitae, or serving in leadership roles, he is one of our strongest supporters.”
In addition to his current responsibilities as Deputy CEO and Chief Health System Officer for Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Dr. Pinson has served as Chairman of the VUMC’s Department of Surgery and was Director of the Vanderbilt Transplant Center for nearly two decades. He has published over 300 peer-reviewed research articles and has trained 35 research fellows, along with numerous surgery residents.
Dr. Pinson credits the American Heart Association in starting and directing his career. “The grant the American Heart Association gave me nearly 40 years ago while I was a surgery resident seriously impacted my career. I have seen the AHA funding jump start countless other careers and attract more talent and more funds to the field,” said Dr. Pinson upon accepting the award. “My time with the American Heart Association has been well spent. I know they have saved many lives and impacted the quality of many more.”
“Dr. Pinson has helped raise the bar of excellence for the university, for the medical center, for the city, for the region and for the American Heart Association,” said Angela Humphreys, who served as a volunteer for the American Heart Association alongside Dr. Pinson for many years and presented him with the award.
As it enters the second century of its work, the Association has adopted the theme of Bold Hearts and depends on volunteer leaders like Dr. Pinson to advance its vision of health and hope for everyone, everywhere. For more information about the American Heart Association visit heart.org/tennessee.
Editor’s Note: Heart Gala photos should be credited to Jessica McIntosh Photography.
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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: 214-706-1173
Annie Thornhill: 919-629-8056; Annie.Thornhill@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)