Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, has been named to The NonProfit Times 29th annual Power and Influence Top 50, marking the 11th time the publication has recognized her leadership. The list honors leaders who have distinguished themselves as initiators and innovators in the nonprofit sector.
Brown's professional journey with the American Heart Association began in 1986 in Michigan. In July 2026, the Association celebrates her 40 years of service and leadership advancing its lifesaving mission. She ascended to the role of CEO in 2008, earning a reputation for building impactful partnerships and uniting volunteers, supporters, and staff. Under her leadership, the organization 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 initiatives such as Nation of Lifesavers. The Association has also successfully launched numerous multi-million-dollar research initiatives that are changing the future of heart and brain health.
Today, the American Heart Association is the largest non-governmental funder of cardiovascular research in the United States. Brown's bold vision has resulted in measurable progress for communities worldwide, as noted by Lee Shapiro, American Heart Association volunteer board chair and managing partner at 7wireVentures: “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.”
“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 four decades of service reflect a career dedicated to advancing science, improving care, expanding access to lifesaving education, and inspiring people worldwide to live longer, healthier lives. For more information, visit The NonProfit Times Power and Influence Top 50.
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, the Association funds groundbreaking research, advocates for the public’s health, and provides critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke.
