TUCSON, March 24, 2026 — Through the American Heart Association’s Heart of Southern Arizona campaign, Martin Lopez, president of construction and co-owner of Omni Pools, will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in Southern Arizona has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. Heart of Southern Arizona engages companies, community leaders and individuals to make a lasting impact across the Four Chambers of the American Heart Association’s work: discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge.
The campaign will come together at the Southern Arizona Heart Ball, celebrating hope and progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere.
“It’s a great honor to serve in this role,” said Lopez. “I look forward to serving with our incredible team of volunteers and the American Heart Association to drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy and care for healthier people and communities. Creating lasting impact takes all of us — and together, we can build a healthier future for every person in Southern Arizona.”
“Lopez brings exceptional vision and energy as a respected community leader. His commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, combined with a clear passion for improving the well-being of our community, makes an outstanding choice to lead this year’s campaign,” said Anthony Schaefer, volunteer board chair of American Heart Association, Southern Arizona and Team Lead at The Schaefer Team at Long Realty. “We welcome Martin Lopez as chair of the Heart of Southern Arizona campaign, which unites leaders across our community to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.”
The 2026/2027 Southern Arizona Heart Ball is sponsored by Arizona Complete Health and will be held on Saturday, February 6, 6:00 p.m. at the Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa. The annual event is a night to celebrate the Heart Association’s year-round efforts to build a healthier Tucson. Throughout the evening, the Heart Association will honor volunteers and patrons, share survivor stories and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an auction. For more information on how to support or attend the Southern Arizona Heart Ball, visit heart.org/soazhb or contact shannon.macadam@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. 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, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Chris Calloway, (520) 917-7520 Christopher.Calloway@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org