Local leaders unite for a healthier Central Massachusetts
WORCESTER, Mass., Sept. 30, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere, today announced its Central Massachusetts Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, including the addition of new local leaders committed to improving heart and brain health in the region.
Christopher Kostiw, senior vice president and team leader of commercial lending at Berkshire Bank, will continue as board chair. Greg Hoonjan, executive director at Salmon Health & Retirement, has been named chair-elect. Dr. Brian Silver, vice chair of clinical operations at UMass Memorial Medical Center and professor of neurology at UMass Chan Medical School, continues as board president, while Dr. Tammy Nguyen, assistant professor of surgery at UMass Memorial Medical Center, will serve as president-elect. Elizabeth Greene, partner at Mirick, returns as leadership development chair.
Joining the board this year are:
- Dr. Michelle Hadley, cardiologist and co-chair of the Saint Vincent Hospital Women’s Health & Lifestyle Center, who will serve as the Board’s co-chair of Women’s Health; and
- Matthew Vaccaro, president of Masis Staffing Solutions and president of the Worcester Bravehearts.
Returning members include:
- Jay Cyr, certified professional leadership coach; and
- Dr. David McManus, Richard M. Haidack professor and chair of the Department of Medicine at UMass Chan Medical School/UMass Memorial Health and editor-in-chief of the Cardiovascular Digital Health Journal.
“Our board members bring passion, expertise and a deep commitment to the health of our community,” said Brian Shankey, executive director of the American Heart Association in Central Massachusetts. “With their leadership, we will continue driving meaningful change by addressing health disparities, advancing lifesaving research and building a healthier future for every family in Central Massachusetts.”
The Board helps guide the Association’s work locally, from funding innovative research to delivering community education and lifesaving resources.
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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:
Chris Camire: 781-373-4521; chris.camire@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
