UTICA, N.Y., July 25, 2024 — The American Heart Association, celebrating a century of profound impact on heart health and well-being, is welcoming five community leaders to its board of directors in the Mohawk Valley.

The new board members, who will serve two terms that began on July 1, are:

  • Joanne Donaruma Wade, Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse; retired executive director, The ARC, Oneida Lewis  
  • Maria Kontaridis, Ph.D., Executive Director, Gordon K. Moe Professor and Chair of Biomedical Research and Translational Medicine; Director of Research, Masonic Medical Research Institute
  • Theresa Lennon, Steve Lennon & Company Jewelers
  • Cheryl Beckett Minor, Ed.D.,Utica City School District
  • Travis Rabbers, M & T Bank

Amy DeMetri, retired Executive Vice President, First Source Federal Credit Union, and Business Consultant, ARD Consulting, will serve as the board chair. Cynthia Jones, M.D., medical director of Mosaic Health, will serve as president.

Other board members include:

  • Tanya Bristol, RN, Boston Scientific
  • Jennifer Carbone Zuccaro, M.D., Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital
  • Jonathan Henderson, M.D., Utica Pediatrics
  • Jennifer Keida, Standard Insulating
  • Albert Pylinski, board member emeritus
  • Lori Sharpe

“Our new board members bring expertise and enthusiasm,” said Amy DeMetri, who has been on the board for two years. “We will work with the community to continue to support the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease and stroke. We are poised to grow attendance at our events, and expand our impact on the community as we build a Nation of Lifesavers – people who know Hands-only CPR – and increase awareness about ways to improve heart and brain health.”

For information about the American Heart Association in the Mohawk Valley, visit www.heart.org/newyork.

###

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: Katherine McCarthy, Sr. Director, Marketing Communications, New York State

518-366-7920 or Katherine.McCarthy@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org