ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., July 1, 2026 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has named Felicia McDermott, MSN, RN, SCRN, to its New Mexico board of directors.
McDermott brings 10 years of clinical nursing experience at the University of New Mexico Hospital, where she has specialized in caring for stroke and neurological patients across the acute care continuum. As a Stroke Certified Registered Nurse (SCRN), she demonstrates advanced competency in evidence-based stroke nursing practice, including acute stroke assessment, treatment and complication management—expertise that aligns closely with the American Heart Association’s mission to improve cardiovascular health and advance health equity across New Mexico.
“Felicia is a dedicated clinician and advocate who understands the complexity of stroke care and the importance of supporting patients and families every step of the way,” said Dr. Latha Raja Shankar, president of the American Heart Association–New Mexico board. “Her clinical insight and commitment to community education will strengthen our efforts to reduce the impact of stroke across our state.”
McDermott earned a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Grand Canyon University in October 2021, building on a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the same institution. Her advanced education supports a commitment to excellence in both clinical practice and nursing education, particularly as stroke care continues to evolve in rural and underserved communities. In recognition of her service, she received the 2023 New Mexico Nursing Excellence Award for Excellence in Community Service.
Beyond direct patient care, McDermott has demonstrated leadership in stroke education and community engagement. For the past five years, she has been actively involved with local stroke support groups and the United Stroke Alliance, a national nonprofit organization. Through this work, she has fostered meaningful relationships with caregivers and stroke survivors, emphasizing the critical importance of the caregiver-survivor partnership in recovery outcomes.
Her educational initiatives extend from inpatient settings to the broader Albuquerque community, reflecting a commitment to improving stroke awareness, prevention and recovery support across diverse populations.
“Stroke affects individuals, families and entire communities, and education is key to improving outcomes,” McDermott said. “I’m honored to join the American Heart Association–New Mexico board and support efforts to expand access to care, raise awareness and help people live longer, healthier lives.”
In addition to Shankar, other American Heart Association–New Mexico board members are Leticia Archuleta, Dr. Philip Camp, Martha Carpenter, Leticia Chavarria, Shayai Lucero, Kathryn Marcotte, chair Suzanne Maribal, Mike May, Alexandra Pedersen Green, Martha S. Porter, Joseph P. Roybal‑Sánchez, Chris Schroeder, Dr. Robert Taylor and Louis Volk III.
Information on the American Heart Association-New Mexico is available by contacting Sherri Wells at Sherri.Wells@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, X or 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
