Addison Gralund student earns national scholarship for leading healthy change

Des Moines, IA Sept. 19, 2025 — Youth physical activity has steadily declined in recent years, contributing to rising rates of anxiety, depression and obesity among adolescents [1]. At Central City High School, senior Addison Gralund is working to reverse that trend by encouraging her peers and community to take charge of their health. In recognition of her efforts, Addison Gralund was recently awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health of all, through its school-based program, the American Heart Challenge™.

For the past six years, Gralund has proudly served as a spokesperson for Go Red for Women, while also playing a pivotal role in organizing the Cedar Rapids Heart Ball. As an ambassador for the Cedar Rapids Heart Walk in both 2018 and 2024, and the face of the American Heart Challenge in 2023, Gralund has been nationally recognized for their volunteer efforts and leadership within the American Heart Association (AHA). Their responsibilities have included sharing their personal heart journey, volunteering at various AHA events, and running "Go Red for Heart" basketball games at schools. Through these endeavors, Gralund has been committed to raising awareness and inspiring others to join the fight against heart disease.

Gralund plans to use the scholarship to further her education in cardiology at Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids. Her dedication to a healthy lifestyle, extensive volunteering with the American Heart Association (AHA), and personal experience with heart disease have driven her passion for medical advancements. She hopes to contribute to innovations that could reduce the need for surgeries and interventions for herself and others with heart disease.

“Addison has shown that leadership isn’t just about raising your hand in class — it’s about raising awareness, taking action and bringing others along with you,” said Sydney Yanecek, Development Director- School Engagement at the American Heart Association– Eastern Iowa. “Their work through the American Heart Challenge is a powerful example of how young people are shaping the future of health in their schools and communities.”

Addison was one of five high schoolers nationwide who received the scholarship, which is awarded annually to students exhibiting exceptional leadership through the American Heart Challenge. Students were recommended by their school program advisors and selected based on their ability to motivate their peers and improve community health.

The American Heart Challenge engages middle and high school students in service-learning activities that make a difference. Participants raise awareness and support for congenital heart defects, CPR education, mental well-being and more in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

To learn about bringing the American Heart Challenge to your school, visit www.heart.org/getstarted.

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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, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:
Rodrigo Gonzalez: Rodrigo.Gonzalez@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org