AUSTIN, TX, January 31, 2023 — The American Heart Association’s Austin market is pleased to announce Vanessa Maldonado as its new executive director, bringing with her more than a decade of nonprofit leadership and development experience while returning her to her Central Texas roots.

“I am so excited to be joining a great organization that is changing the way the community in Central Texas views heart health and wellness but even more thrilled to be walking a long side a great team in Austin,” said Maldonado.

“We are thrilled to have Vanessa joining the American Heart Association,” said Senior Vice President of Development Sara Harwood. “Vanessa has fantastic energy, is a big thinker and possesses a drive with urgency. She will undoubtedly move mountains in Central Texas and continue to drive a tremendous impact on the American Heart Association’s mission.”

Vanessa knows Texas well, coming to the Association from AVANCE-North Texas where she served as the executive director. During her tenure, Vanessa nearly doubled AVANCE’s annual budget and continued to be one of the leading service providers ensuring that Latino families have the resources, education and social capital needed to thrive.  

Prior to AVANCE, Maldonado was the chief engagement officer for Easterseals, a nonprofit organization that promotes independence and creates opportunity where she managed the organization’s fundraising, retail operations, communications, marketing and advocacy efforts in Central and North Texas.

An Austin native, Vanessa graduated from St. Edward’s University with a degree in psychology and nonprofit management after a career in the United States Air Force.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. We are a trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well-being. We collaborate with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookTwitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Megan Jameson: 512-338-2639,megan.jameson@heart.org

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org