DAYTON, OH - February 12, 2025 – The American Heart Association proudly recognizes three exceptional women as the inaugural recipients of Dayton’s Live Fierce: Be Well award. Honored at the Go Red for Women Luncheon, these leaders have made a profound impact on the community by prioritizing wellness and inspiring others to do the same.
The 2025 Live Fierce: Be Well recipients are:
- Shanda McKinney, Global Head of People and Culture, Woolpert
- Jessica Jones, President/CEO, Universal 1 Credit Union
- Dr. Karen Townsend, President, KTownsend Consulting
Each of these remarkable women embodies the spirit of Live Fierce: Be Well by championing health, wellness, and leadership in their professional and personal lives. They shared their insights and experiences as part of a panel at Dayton’s Go Red for Women Luncheon, where they were formally recognized for their dedication to building a healthier community.
“These women are not only leaders in their fields, but they are also leading by example – advocating for well-being in their workplaces, communities, and beyond,” said Stephanie Yenn, executive director of the American Heart Association. “Their commitment to wellness aligns with our mission to empower individuals to take charge of their health and live fierce.”
The Live Fierce: Be Well award underscores the importance of heart health, mental well-being, and lifestyle choices that contribute to a longer, healthier life. By recognizing these outstanding women, the American Heart Association celebrates their efforts to inspire positive change throughout Dayton and beyond.
For more information on the Live Fierce: Be Well award contact Stephanie.Yenn@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, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
Katie Kwapich
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
