American Heart Association Awards Scholarships to Student Leaders Promoting Heart Health

The American Heart Association has awarded $1,000 scholarships to five high school students across the United States who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting heart health within their communities. This initiative comes in response to concerning research indicating that many young Americans develop cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or Type 2 diabetes by age 18, as detailed in a scientific statement published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Lee A. Shapiro, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association, highlighted the significance of these student leaders, noting that they model healthy choices and inspire their peers while contributing to shaping the future of health today. The scholarship recipients were chosen based on recommendations from their school's American Heart Challenge program advisers and their demonstrated commitment to improving both personal and community health.

The 2024-25 scholarship recipients include Addison Gralund from Central City, Iowa, a congenital heart defect survivor who is pursuing a career in cardiology; Ashley LoMonaco from Wayne, New Jersey, an advocate inspired by her grandfather's heart disease who plans to attend Dartmouth College; Jack Waranavage from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, an athlete using his platform to promote heart-healthy lifestyles while attending Muhlenberg College; Jameson Calvery from Fairhope, Alabama, who developed a passion for health after experiencing heart issues post-COVID-19 and will study biomedical engineering at Florida State University; and Zoey Bloomquist from Corpus Christi, Texas, another congenital heart defect survivor who will use her scholarship for tuition at Texas A&M University - Kingsville.

The American Heart Challenge program engages middle and high school students in service-learning activities that raise awareness and funds supporting CPR education, physical and mental health improvement, scientific research advancement, and other initiatives combating heart disease and stroke. More information about the program is available at https://heart.org/getstarted.