4 Charleston leaders advocate for health and raise funds critical for fighting heart disease
September 14, 2026
The American Heart Association’s Leaders of Impact™ nominees are driving efforts in scientific research, CPR education and health and hope for all
Four Charleston-area leaders are joining the American Heart Association’s Leaders of Impact™ campaign, a seven-week initiative to raise awareness and funds to prevent cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death nationwide.
More than 61% of the U.S. population is expected to have some form of cardiovascular disease by 2050, according to projections from the American Heart Association As a result, related health costs are expected to triple to $1.8 trillion.
Through the Leaders of Impact campaign, the American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is mobilizing leaders across the country to use their networks in the fight against heart disease.
Launching on Sept. 17 and running through Nov. 4, leaders across the country will begin a seven-week competition to improve health outcomes in their communities. They will leverage their collective influence to educate people on the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR and raise funds that are critical to drive pioneering scientific research and support health and well-being for everyone, everywhere.
“These four Charleston leaders are using their passion, influence, and professional networks to help save lives,” said Katie Schumacher, executive director, American Heart Association, Charleston. “In just seven weeks, they’re driving real change in the Lowcountry, funding research, improving access to care and building a healthier future for our community.”
Charleston’s 2026 Leaders of Impact nominees are:
• Tiffany Crumpton, Blackbaud
• Adam Ferrara, Ferrara Buist Contractors
• John Hoekman, Endeavoring Capital
• Dr. Anne Kroman, MUSC Health
After seven weeks of driving impact, the competition will culminate on November 4. The nominee who raises the most lifesaving funds will be named the Charleston 2026 Leaders of Impact Winner. In addition to local market winners, the changemaker who raises the most nationwide, will be named the American Heart Association’s National Leaders of Impact Winner.
For more information on the Leaders of Impact Initiative or to support one of this year’s nominees, visit www2.heart.org/charlestonleaders(opens in new tab)
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(opens in new tab), Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
