LITTLE ROCK, Ark., March 3, 2025 — More than half of U.S. adults will have cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050 according to recent data from the American Heart Association.[1] Through April 10, six dynamic community leaders and in Central Arkansas are joining the American Heart Association to overcome their number No. 1 health threat, CVD, through the Woman of Impact initiative.

For over a century, the American Heart Association has been saving lives and advancing health and hope for everyone. Nominees participating in Woman of Impact will raise funds and awareness to support the Association’s Go Red for Women® movement, which launched over two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness and address clinical care gaps.

“Each of these nominees will use their time, talent, and influence to educate the community about their risk, encourage them to take action to improve their health, and raise critical funds to continue the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association,” said Dr. Arnessa Bennett, director of the Diversity Equity Inclusion Alliance for the mayor’s office in North Little Rock. Bennett and Kimberly Lee, small business loan officer for the Hope Credit Union, are co-chairpersons of the Central Arkansas Circle of Red campaign, a fundraising group for the local Go Red for Women Movement.

The Woman of Impact launched on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 7, in hundreds of cities across the country. Hundreds of nominees nationwide embarked on a nine-week journey to help transform heart health. Each week, nominees and their team members participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and equitable health. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting active, recruiting friends and family to participate in research and more.

Central Arkansas’ 2025 Woman of Impact Nominees are:

  • Alexandria Washington of Little Rock, founder/managing principal, The BIG Agency
  • Alexis Hervey of Conway, REALTOR and onboarding and agent training specialist, Century 21 Parker and Scroggins
  • Patrice Green of Jacksonville, associate director-Technology Program Management, Verizon Wireless
  • Gwendolyn Parker of Little Rock, real estate executive broker, Keller Williams
  • Shannon Smith of Little Rock, principal broker, SSD Realty Group
  • Vikita Eason of Little Rock, Amazon influencer and owner, Kitalashel Salon and Boutique

One nominee will be named the Central Arkansas 2025 Woman of Impact Winner. In addition to local market winners, one nominee from each campaign across the country will be named the National Woman of Impact Winner on April 15.

“At the American Heart Association, our future is about improving the lives of others,” said Lee. “We are thrilled that these individuals have come alongside us in this effort. Together, we can outpace CVD and build a brighter future for all.”

While the large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to take the life of 1 in 3 people.

To learn more about the Women of Impact candidates in Central Arkansas, visit www.heart.org/CentralARGoRed .

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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 or X 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).  

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org