ATLANTA, Nov. 5, 2024 — Eleven prominent Georgia leaders have been appointed to the American Heart Association’s 2024-2025 Statewide Advocacy Committee. The Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all.
Throughout the year, committee members will play an instrumental role in advancing health equity and guiding efforts to reduce the prevalence of heart disease and stroke in Georgia. Together, these volunteers will guide the Association’s efforts to change systems and policies, address disparities and transform health care and the health equity across the state.
Paula Kreissler, executive director of Healthy Savannah, will serve as chairperson of the committee.
“I am honored to help lead the American Heart Association’s advocacy work to improve the health of our state,” said Kreissler. “By making strides in science, policy, and care, we can help people live longer, healthier lives. I’m excited to work with this committee to bring positive change for all Georgians.”
The committee will advise the Association’s policy efforts in the areas of increasing access to care through Medicaid expansion to over 400,000 uninsured Georgians; increasing access to healthy foods through a summer EBT initiative and produce prescription funding that could provide thousands of Georgians in lower-income areas the opportunity to purchase locally grown produce to help manage chronic diseases; and implementing quality systems of care to remove barriers for tobacco cessation, strengthen laws to reduce the risks of secondhand smoke and provide clean indoor air quality.
Other state advocacy committee leaders include:
- Samir Belagaje, M.D., Emory University School of Medicine
- Jack Bernard, Fayette County Board of Health
- Kimberly Goodloe, Heart Survivor
- Damian Francis, Georgia College & State University
- Nettie Jackson, Community Volunteer
- Allen Jernigan, Southern Companions
- Donna S. Martin, EdS, RDN, LD, SNS, FAND, Burke County Public Schools
- Tina Marie Marsden, Heart Survivor
- Latonja Richardson, Emory Healthcare
- Laura Searcy MN, APRN, PPCNP-BC, FAANP, Georgia Tobacco-Free Youth Project
“We look forward to all we’ll accomplish with this incredible group of leaders whose expertise, experiences and passion will be valuable in supporting the Association’s policy work in Georgia throughout the year,” said Laura Bracci, government relations director of the American Heart Association.
For additional information on the American Heart Association’s advocacy priorities in Georgia, visit www.heart.org/Georgia.
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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:
Erin Thomas ;Erin.Thomas@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org