MIAMI, November 8, 2023 – The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all, awards ten $5,000 scholarships to college students across the United States through the EmPOWERED Scholars program.

Jonathan Jean Charles, a sophomore at University of Miami, has been recognized as an EmPOWERED Scholar. Jonathan is studying biochemistry and molecular biology.

The American Heart Association’s EmPOWERED Scholars program awards scholarships to enrolled undergraduate students who volunteer in their communities and give their time to community-based organizations, student-led organizations and other groups that address food insecurity, safe housing, job opportunities, access to health care and other conditions that can result in health disparities. Applicants had to meet enrollment and GPA guidelines and submit an essay. In addition to receiving a scholarship, scholars become part of the EmPOWERED to Serve™ network of ambassadors and alumni who support the Association’s mission.

Jonathan believes in the importance of providing all people with high-quality, patient-centered health care. At UM, Jonathan served as a COPE Peer Educator to raise awareness of mental health topics (e.g., suicide prevention, body image and depression) and promote emotional well-being among undergraduate students. Jonathan is the health chair for the NAACP at UM.

“To be one of only ten scholars recognized in 2023 is a tremendous achievement, and we congratulate Jonathan Jean Charles for being named an EmPOWERED Scholar this year,” said Marisol Garcia, executive director for the American Heart Association’s Greater Miami and Fort Lauderdale market. “We know this will be a great source of pride for Jonathan and his family, friends and school, and we welcome Jonathan to the American Heart Association family in South Florida.”

Nationally, 39 scholars representing more than twenty different colleges and universities have benefited from the EmPOWERED Scholars program to date. For more information about this and other scholarship programs, visit empoweredtoserve.org/scholars.

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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, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Christina Vitale, Marketing and Communications Director

Christina.vitale @heart.org