TAMPA, Fla.  May 30, 2025 – The American Heart Association is proud to announce that University of South Florida President Rhea Law and prominent Tampa Bay business leader and philanthropist Frank Morsani will serve as co-chairpersons for the 2025 Tampa Bay Heart Walk. Their leadership will unite local executives, businesses and community champions in a year-round effort to fight heart disease and stroke while building a stronger, healthier region — one lifesaver at a time.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Tampa Bay and across the country. The Heart Walk campaign addresses this by raising critical funds for research and education, while also equipping thousands of residents with lifesaving CPR skills. This initiative supports the American Heart Association’s national Nation of Lifesavers™ movement, which aims to double survival rates from cardiac arrest by 2030.

“Cardiac emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere — including our homes, schools and workplaces,” said Law. “By expanding CPR training throughout the Tampa Bay area, we are giving our community the power to save lives.”

Each year, nearly 350,000 people suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, and nearly 90% of them don’t survive¹. Immediate bystander CPR, however, can double or even triple the chance of survival. That’s why this year’s Heart Walk campaign will focus not only on fundraising but also on increasing access to CPR education across the region.

Morsani added, “This is about more than just one day of walking — it’s about creating a culture of health in every corner of Tampa Bay. We want to empower every business, every school, and every family to be part of this lifesaving mission.”

Companies that join the campaign will have the opportunity to promote wellness in the workplace, raise awareness among employees, and invest in the future health of the community. The campaign will culminate at the Tampa Bay Heart Walk on Saturday, November 15 at Raymond James Stadium, where more than 20,000 participants are expected to gather in support of the cause.

“The Heart Walk is where purpose meets passion,” said Nina Morgan, executive director of the American Heart Association in Tampa Bay. “With the leadership of President Law and Mr. Morsani, we’re building a local movement to train more lifesavers, support groundbreaking research, and ensure everyone in Tampa Bay has the opportunity for a longer, healthier life.”

Businesses and organizations interested in participating or sponsoring the 2025 Heart Walk can contact the American Heart Association’s Tampa Bay team at TampaBay@heart.org or visit www.TampaBayHeartWalk.org for more information.

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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. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.     

For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173

Name: Madison Potter, Madison.Potter@heart.org  

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

heart.org and stroke.org