TYLER, Texas, July 3, 2026 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has named longtime volunteer and healthcare executive Vicki Briggs as chair of the board of directors for its SouthWest region. Briggs began her two-year term as board chair on July 1, 2026.
A retired healthcare executive, Briggs most recently served as CEO of UTHealth Tyler and now serves as executive chair of the board of Bioceptive and vice chair of Hospice of East Texas. During a career spanning nearly five decades, she held senior leadership roles across a wide range of healthcare organizations, guiding hospitals and health systems through growth, transformation and ownership changes.
“We are thrilled to welcome Vicki as board chair,” said SouthWest Region Executive Vice President Tanya Edwards. “Her healthcare expertise and deep commitment to improving health outcomes make her a powerful advocate for our mission. I am confident that her leadership will help us continue building stronger, healthier communities across the region.”
The American Heart Association’s SouthWest region serves approximately 46 million people across Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming. Many live in rural communities, where barriers to healthcare can contribute to poorer cardiovascular outcomes and a higher risk of early death from heart disease or stroke.
Briggs, an East Texas resident, is particularly passionate about improving health in rural areas, a commitment shaped by her upbringing in small towns. Born in Center, Texas, and raised in Raceland, La., she has seen firsthand the unique healthcare challenges these communities often face.
“Rural health initiatives are close to my heart,” Briggs said. “As much impact as the American Heart Association has had, there are still opportunities for advancement and education, so I’m really happy to be part of that.”
A SouthWest board member since 2021, Briggs is a longtime supporter of the American Heart Association’s mission. She first became involved in 1990 as Heart Walk chair in Baton Rouge, La., and later served as chair of the Association’s Southeast region board.
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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 one hundred 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
Beth Godfrey, Beth.Godfrey@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
