Bakersfield, Calif., November 20, 2023 – The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, announces Robin Mangarin-Scott, vice president of marketing and communications for Dignity Health Southern California North, as the community volunteer chair of the 2024 Kern County Go Red for Women movement. Go Red for Women is a worldwide initiative of the American Heart Association designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally and globally. 

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading killer of women in the United States, with nearly 45% of women over age 20 living with some form of it. However, despite this sweeping impact, only 44% of women realize CVD is a top cause of death. Increasing awareness is a pivotal step in the fight against heart disease and stroke, with research showing that the majority of cardiovascular events can be prevented through lifestyle changes and education. 

“I’m humbled and excited to serve as this year’s Go Red for Women chairperson,” said Mangarin-Scott. “This role aligns seamlessly with my own personal purpose of acting in service to the Bakersfield community. Alongside my friends, family and network, I’m eager for the opportunity to further increase awareness around the important causes of women’s heart and brain health, with an emphasis on maternal health." 

Serving alongside Mangarin-Scott is a group of dedicated Go Red for Women volunteer leaders including:

  • Deanna Blaise, senior vice president member business services, Valley Strong Credit Union
  • Raji Brar, chief operating officer, Countryside Market & Restaurants
  • David Bynum, chief executive officer, Bynum Inc.
  • Emily Duran, chief executive officer, Kern Health Systems
  • Stacy Ferreira, community volunteer
  • Jeannine Johnson, designer, It’s Your Party Bakersfield
  • NaTesha Johnson, director of entrepreneurship and workforce development, Bakersfield College
  • Tara Keller, community volunteer
  • Barbara Lee, community volunteer
  • Prachi Mehta, attorney, Law Office of Prachi Mehta
  • Kaelyn Peterson, director of strategic communications and engagement, Grimmway Farms
  • Scott Salters, director, Cushman & Wakefield
  • Teresa Shambaugh, community volunteer
  • Lauren Skidmore, chief executive officer, The Open Door Network
  • Kristi Windtberg, owner, LVL Fitness 

“As the Go Red for Women movement enters its second decade, we’re thrilled to have Robin Mangarin-Scott, a storied and respected member of the Kern County community, as our chairperson to help mark this momentous year,” said Kelley Berry, executive director, American Heart Association, Kern County and Central Valley. “Robin has pioneered efforts to raise awareness for critical health issues throughout her career. With her support, we’re poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of women in our community and the families they support.” 

In 2024, Go Red for Women will mark two decades of making an impact by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies, and raising awareness of women’s health issues. Local achievements will be celebrated on March 8 at the 2024 Go Red for Women Luncheon, sponsored nationally by CVS Health, locally presented by Dignity Health Bakersfield. For Go Red for Women Luncheon sponsorships or to purchase a table, contact Chelsea Ashcraft at Chelsea.Ashcraft@heart.org.  

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About Go Red for Women®

The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 20 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).   

About the American Heart Association 

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Connect with the American Heart Association in Kern County on heart.org/southern-california, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

For media inquiries:

Lily Gordon, lily.gordon@heart.org 

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

heart.org and stroke.org