First Coast leader appointed to American Heart Association Southeast Board of Directors
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Aug. 5, 2025 — Reed Hammond, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, has been selected to join the 2025-2026 Southeast Board of Directors for the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all. Hammond will assist the Association with initiatives to fight heart disease and stroke, the No.1 and No.5 causes of death for adults in the United States, respectively.
“The American Heart Association is a force in championing equitable health and the impact cardiovascular disease and stroke have on our families, friends, colleagues and country,” Hammond said. “I align deeply with the Association’s work, and I am honored to serve as a member of the Southeast Region’s Board of Directors.”
Hammond joined HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in June 2023. Prior to his current role, he served as CEO of HCA Healthcare’s Frankfort Regional Medical Center in Frankfort, Kentucky. He has also held COO positions at several hospitals and medical centers throughout his career. In addition to his Southeast Board appointment, Hammond is also supporting the Association locally as the 2025 First Coast Heart Challenge™ Chairperson.
“We have been so fortunate to work closely with Reed and to witness his passion and dedication for the American Heart Association’s work here on the First Coast,” said Caitlin Brunell, executive director for the American Heart Association, First Coast. “Now, we’re excited to see the meaningful impact he’ll make at a regional level.”
The American Heart Association Southeast region services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Puerto Rico. For more information visit 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. 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:
Emma Richards: Emma.richards@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
