RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, October 19, 2023 As plans are underway for the 2024 Richmond Heart Ball, Utibe Bassey, Dominion Energy Vice President of Customer Experience, has been named chair of this year’s community-wide campaign. The Heart Ball celebrates progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association’s Heart of Richmond, a year-round effort aimed at investing in saving and improving lives in Greater Richmond and the Tri-Cities.  

“Utibe exemplifies true leadership and commitment as a business leader here in Central Virginia.  We welcome Utibe to the Heart of Richmond, an initiative that centers around better health for every individual by focusing on critical issues and equitable health,” says Chandra Hurst, American Heart Association Richmond Board Chair.  

Utibe Bassey is Vice President of Customer Experience with Dominion Energy. Bassey has held roles across a number of disciplines including strategy, operations, design, organizational transformation, and innovation – all anchored on improving the human condition. Bassey holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a bachelor's degree in management information systems from Central Connecticut State University. 

I am honored to serve as Chair of the 2024 Richmond Heart Ball,” said Utibe Bassey. “I am eager to work together with our outstanding team of volunteers and the American Heart Association as we all advocate to make a difference and impact the well-being of all people in our community. Each member of our team is connected personally and cares deeply about the cause.” 

Along with Utibe, the local Executive Leadership Team for the Richmond Heart Ball includes Ernie Combs, ColonialWebb Contractors; Robby Demeria, Phlow Corporation; Karen Frye, Fulton Bank; Terrence Kerner, Atlantic Constructors; John Laurenzana, Encompass Health; Melissa McPherson, Safe Harbor; Keith Middleton, Fahrenheit Advisors; Margaret Reed, Gilbane; Rich Reinecke, Fahrenheit Advisors; Brandon Shaw, Clark Construction; Kelly Till, Richmond Times-Dispatch; and Jock Wheeler, Old Dominion Mechanical  

The 2024 Richmond Heart Ball will be celebrated as a part of the American Heart Association’s hundredth anniversary and is presented by Dominion Energy and Phlow Corporation. Over 50 local companies are supporting this year’s campaign. The event itself is slated for Saturday, April 27 at Main Street Station.  

The annual event is a night to celebrate the association’s year-round efforts to drive health equity in RVA. This year’s campaign is specifically focused on creating a Nation of Lifesavers across the Richmond area, to ensure more neighbors have the chance to live a full and healthy life. Throughout the evening the American Heart Association, the worlds leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health, 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 Richmond Heart Ball, visit Heart.org/RVAHeartBall or contact Sommer Goldsmith at sommer.goldsmith@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, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

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