AUSTIN, Nov. 19, 2025 ­­­— Local leadership is a key part of the American Heart Association’s mission, connecting the mission to create a world of healthier lives for all to the individuals, companies, and philanthropists that make the community unique. After a seven-week campaign, Austin’s Leaders of Impact competition has crowned Connor Davis (Buff City Soaps) as the winner. Davis raised $43,306 and reached the top 25 nationwide, coming in at number 22.

Running from Sept. 18 to Nov. 5, individuals nominated for the Leaders of Impact awards competed to improve health within their local communities. They leveraged their collective influence to educate people on the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR and raise funds that are critical to driving pioneering scientific research, such as work at the University of Texas analyzing the effects of specific hormones on heart defects.

The Association has funded more than $6.1 billion in cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and brain health research since 1949, making it the single largest nonprofit, non-government supporter of heart and brain health research in the U.S. In Austin, there are 10 research projects underway, totaling more than $865,000 of investment. Knowledge from this research saves lives and directly impacts people, not just in Austin, but in every corner of the world.

“I’m incredibly proud of the success of our campaign and I am certain those dollars are going to make a big impact here in Central Texas,” said Davis. “It goes without saying but it wouldn’t have been possible without such an amazing team, and I’m especially grateful for the financial support from two of my family’s local businesses – The Joint Chiropractic and Buff City Soap.”

Austin’s 2025 Leaders of Impact Nominees were:

  • Connor Davis (Buff City Soaps)
  • Albert Moseley (Regen Health & Wellness)
  • Jeff Nydegger (Winstead PC)

For more information on the Leaders of Impact initiative or to nominate someone for the upcoming Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact initiatives, visit Nominate a Candidate | Woman of Impact or contact Jessica Lucas at Jessica.Lucas@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

Michael Vybiral: michael.vybiral@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org