Local hospital executive to lead American Heart Association effort driving equitable health in Central Massachusetts
WORCESTER, Mass., October 18, 2024 — The American Heart Association announced today that Justin Precourt, a local hospital executive, will chair the 2025 Heart of Central Massachusetts campaign, which culminates in a celebration at the Heart and Stroke Ball in March.
Precourt is the interim president of UMass Memorial Medical Center, an 800-bed teaching hospital that employs 7,500 caregivers across three campuses and community sites in Central Massachusetts. As the flagship of UMass Memorial Health, UMMMC serves over 1.5 million people throughout Central New England.
The Heart and Stroke Ball will take place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. The annual event celebrates progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association’s Heart of Central Massachusetts campaign, a year-round effort aimed at saving lives from heart disease and stroke.
As chair, Precourt will lead a team of area business leaders and medical professionals working to recruit companies to support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association.
“Justin’s passion for the American Heart Association’s mission, his deep understanding of community needs, and his unwavering dedication to making a difference make him the ideal choice to lead this campaign,” said Chris Kostiw, chair of the American Heart Association’s Board of Directors in Central Massachusetts. “We are excited to welcome Justin as the chair of the Heart of Central Massachusetts, which aims to address critical health issues and work toward equitably improving and saving lives in our community.”
Cardiovascular care has been central to Precourt’s career in health care. As a registered nurse, he cared for cardiology patients and saw firsthand the effects of heart disease and stroke on both patients and their families. His dedication aligns with the American Heart Association’s mission to break down barriers to health equity, ensuring everyone can lead a healthy life.
“As a leader at the largest safety net hospital in Massachusetts outside of Boston, I am committed to advancing health equity and making sure all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to quality healthcare,” said Precourt. “It takes a village to make a lasting impact, and we must do everything we can to build a healthier future for everyone in our community.”
Precourt also has deep family connections to heart disease and stroke. His grandfather passed away from stroke complications at 69, and six years ago, his father died after a major stroke, which was related to atrial fibrillation. His brother, at just 42, suffered a head bleed likely caused by uncontrolled hypertension, and four of his six uncles have undergone coronary artery bypass grafts, with the other two receiving stents at young ages. Additionally, his brother-in-law died from cardiac arrest at 40 following a morning run.
Before joining UMass Memorial Medical Center, Precourt served as interim chief nursing officer at Tufts Medical Center and spent eight years as a bedside nurse. He holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Northeastern University, a master’s degree in nursing from Saint Joseph’s College, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Rush University. Precourt is also involved in professional organizations, such as the Organization of Nurse Leaders, American College of Healthcare Executives, Massachusetts Association for Healthcare Quality, American Nurses Association, and American Association of Critical Care Nurses.
He lives in Arlington, Mass., with his wife, Becky, and daughters Bridget, Teagan and Natalie.
Joining Precourt on the Heart of Central Massachusetts Executive Leadership Team are:
- Briana Azier, CEO and owner, Bri’s Sweet Treats
- Derek Beahn, senior vice president, director of marketing, Fidelity Bank
- Jennifer Bernardo-Bailey, physician assistant, critical care unit, Saint Vincent Hospital
- Stephanie Costello, senior director, cardiovascular care, UMass Memorial Health
- Jay Cyr, founder, Jay Cyr Professional Leadership Coaching CPC, ACC
- Michelle Fernald, stroke coordinator/project manager, UMass Memorial Health
- Dr. Gary Keilson, chief of neurology, Reliant Medical Group
- Christine Lee, residential counselor, UMass Memorial Health
- Towma Rastad, community engagement manager, Fidelity Bank
- Dr. Michele Sinopoli, chief medical officer, Saint Vincent Hospital
At the Heart and Stroke Ball, the American Heart Association will honor volunteers and patrons, feature stories of survivors, and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an exciting auction. For more information on how to support or attend the ball, visit heart.org/CentralMAHB or contact event director Sabrina Webb at sabrina.webb@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. 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 nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Chris Camire: chris.camire@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
