Construction executive leads campaign to improve health in Oregon and SW Washington
PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 18, 2025 — For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has committed to advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Through the Heart of Oregon and southwest Washington Heart Ball campaign, Julian Allen, volunteer chairperson and McKinstry business development director and co-lead of the Oregon New Construction team, will direct community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual has the opportunity for a full, healthy life.
The Heart Ball celebrates hope and progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association’s efforts to make an impact on the health of the community. These efforts include the relentless pursuit of scientific discovery, public policy change, equitable health for the under resourced and underrepresented, and education to equip the community to take control of their health.
“Julian demonstrates outstanding leadership and dedication as a collaborative leader at McKinstry. His long-term passion and commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, deep understanding of community needs, and unwavering drive to make a difference positions him as the perfect choice to lead this campaign,” said Anthony Mulholland, American Heart Association’s local board president and OHSU Health vice president and chief nursing officer, ambulatory services.
Allen brings a collaborative, solution-based approach to solving challenges with an emphasis on positive outcomes. His marketing and communications background helps build trust by strengthening relationships and translating complex concepts into relatable and actionable knowledge.
“I am honored to serve as the 2026 Oregon and southwest Washington Heart Ball chairperson,” said Allen. “My personal journey with high blood pressure and family history of the condition, drives my passion for the Association’s mission. I am eager to work alongside our outstanding team of volunteers and the American Heart Association to effect change. It takes a village to make a lasting impact, and we must do whatever it takes to create a better tomorrow for all people in Portland and Vancouver.”
The 2026 Oregon and southwest Washington Heart Ball is sponsored by McKinstry, HL Stearns, OHSU Health, Studson, Hoffman Construction, JH Kelly, SteelFab, and many other local supporters. The event will be held February 21, 2026 at the Hyatt Regency Portland. It is a night to celebrate the Association’s year-round efforts to break down barriers to health in Oregon and southwest Washington. Throughout the evening, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health, will honor volunteers and patrons, feature stories of survivors, and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an exciting auction. For more information on how to support or attend the Heart Ball, visit heart.org/pdxheartball or contact Jana Boyle, jana.boyle@heart.org.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org/oregon, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Jay Wintermeyer, jay.wintermeyer@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
