Honolulu, January 9, 2024 — A celebration of a century of profound impact on heart health and well-being, the new year marks the 100th birthday of the American Heart Association and the start of the organization’s Bold HeartsTM celebration. Beginning a new century of mission critical work, the organization continues the steadfast commitment to making the bold moves needed for new paths of scientific discovery, eradicating barriers to health equity and advocating for healthy policy so that every member of the Hawai’i community has the opportunity for a longer, healthier life. That pledge to the community is shared with like-minded community leaders and organizations that are relentless in their support to eliminate heart disease and stroke in the new century.

“As we close out our first 100 years and begin the next, our work remains as important as ever. Throughout the last century, the American Heart Association has moved health and well-being forward in important and critical ways,” said Zia Khan, M.D., volunteer board president for the American Heart Association Hawai’i and cardiologist at The Queen’s Health System. “We now forge ahead into our second century, fueling science and innovation, funding lifesaving research and boldly standing for the rights of patients and caregivers, to empower healthier communities and transform the way we live, work and play.”

Since its founding on June 10, 1924, the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, has helped transform the nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But there is much work to be done. In Hawai’i, about 1 in 3 residents have high blood pressure, which if left untreated is a significant contributing factor to heart attacks, strokes and other health threats. Our future is about improving yours.

“This relentless pursuit will continue until heart disease and stroke are the stories of our past and not of our future. Because a world with equitable health and well-being fuels a future that is yours to create,” said Brandt Farias, volunteer board chair for the American Heart Association Hawai’i and EVP and chief marketing officer of Central Pacific Bank. “We know we can’t do this work alone. Volunteers, donors and advocate are key to accelerating this lifesaving work.”

Leadership of the signature events of the Hawai’i American Heart Association have demonstrated their commitment to the transformative work ahead in the second century. The bold leadership needed to catapult the American Heart Association’s next 100 years of relentless work and transformative innovation starts today.

The 2024 Hawai’i chairpersons are:

  • Matson as Chair Company for the Hawai’i Heart Ball, to be held on Saturday, Feb 17.
  • Dave Underriner, EVP, O’ahu Operations of Hawai’i Pacific Health, as Chair for the Hawai’i Heart Walk, scheduled for Saturday, Aug 3.

The American Heart Association’s centennial is a celebration of the lifesaving achievements and shared vision for a bold new century that will exponentially advance heart and brain health. With a focus on the work still to be done, bolstered by a commitment to learn from the past, the Association celebrates what it has accomplished, thanks to the hard work and dedication of generations of volunteers and donors.

Ten Hawai’i area donors have pledged support of time, talent and funds as Second Century campaign donors. The leading organizations and generous individuals include:

  • Dr. Ali & Mrs. Judy Farsaie
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Kalaeloa Partners, LP
  • Kamehameha Schools
  • HDS Foundation
  • Hawaii Pacific Health
  • HEI, Hawaiian Electric, and American Savings Bank
  • Matson, Inc.
  • Matt and Dianne Cox
  • The Queen’s Health System

The full list of nationwide Second Century donors can be viewed here

The American Heart Association was founded by six cardiologists, but the distinguished achievements of the organization for the past century are the result of the passion of more than 40 million volunteers, supporters and employees and more than $5 billion invested in scientific research.

To learn more about accomplishments in the first 100 years of the American Heart Association or how to participate in the Second Century campaign, visit heart.org/founders-day or contact Megan Davidson for more information.

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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. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.


For Media Inquiries:
Megan Davidson: 808.377.6637; megan.davidson@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org