Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, has been named to The NonProfit Times 29th annual Power and Influence Top 50 list, the publication announced. This marks the 11th time Brown has received this recognition, which honors leaders who have distinguished themselves as initiators and innovators in the nonprofit sector.
Brown’s tenure with the American Heart Association began in 1986 in Michigan, and in July 2026, the Association celebrates her 40 years of service and leadership. She became CEO in 2008 and has since built a reputation for forging impactful partnerships and uniting volunteers, supporters, and staff to advance the organization’s mission. Under her leadership, the Association has expanded its global influence in cardiovascular and brain health, accelerated scientific discovery, advanced quality improvement programs, strengthened advocacy for healthier communities, elevated women’s health through Go Red for Women, and launched lifesaving initiatives such as Nation of Lifesavers. The organization has also launched numerous multi-million-dollar research initiatives that are changing the future of heart and brain health for patients and communities. Today, the American Heart Association is the largest non-governmental funder of cardiovascular research in the United States.
“Being recognized alongside other remarkable leaders is truly an honor, especially as I reflect on 40 years of service to the American Heart Association,” said Brown. “It is my greatest honor to continue to serve this mission after four decades. I am deeply grateful for the colleagues, mentors, volunteers, supporters, patients, survivors and staff who have been part of this journey, and I am excited to see the impact we will continue to make together.”
Brown’s bold vision has resulted in measurable progress for communities worldwide. Lee Shapiro, American Heart Association volunteer board chair and managing partner at 7wireVentures, commented, “Nancy’s 40 years of service are a testament to the kind of visionary, mission-centered leadership that moves organizations - and entire fields - forward. Her ability to unite volunteers, staff, supporters and sponsors around bold goals has helped expand the Association’s reach and impact in profound ways. Nancy’s leadership continues to position the American Heart Association to save more lives and create longer, healthier futures for people everywhere.”
The recognition underscores the importance of nonprofit leadership in addressing public health challenges. As the largest non-governmental funder of cardiovascular research, the American Heart Association plays a critical role in advancing science and improving care for heart disease and stroke, which remain leading causes of death globally. Brown’s continued influence highlights the impact of sustained, visionary leadership on nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve.
For more information, visit The NonProfit Times Power and Influence Top 50. Additional resources are available on the American Heart Association website and follow AHA/ASA news on X @HeartNews.
