WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Jan. 26, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, announces the leadership of the 2025-2026 Westchester/Fairfield Go Red for Women movement, culminating in a community celebration on Wednesday, March 4 at The Opus Westchester in White Plains, N.Y.

Two champions of women’s empowerment and community impact will co-chair this year’s movement: Lilian Dutra, CEO and founder of AEN Talent Search, and Mia Schipani, chief communications officer and founder of Schipani PR. Dutra, whose work centers on helping women reclaim their careers by stepping into meaningful, fulfilling roles, joins forces with Schipani, a communications leader with more than 25 years of expertise in brand marketing, media relations and strategic storytelling across industries.

Go Red for Women is the Association’s signature initiative focused on improving women’s heart health by shining a light on the unique risks they face. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, yet only 44% of women are aware of this fact. Nearly 45% of women ages 20 and older had some form of cardiovascular disease between 2017 and 2020. With persistent gaps in research, diagnosis and treatment, women continue to be undercounted and underserved. The movement’s goal is to change that by harnessing the power of community, connection and shared experience.

“Health is personal, confusing and often isolating, especially for women who have historically been overlooked in cardiovascular research and care,” Dutra and Schipani said in a joint statement. “That’s why this campaign means so much to us. When women support one another, share information and stand together, we create better health outcomes for everyone. We are honored to lead this effort and inspire our community to Go Red, together.”

Kristen Alouisa, executive director of the American Heart Association in Westchester and Fairfield Counties, praised the co-chairs’ commitment to elevating women’s health.

“Lilian and Mia are powerful advocates who understand the importance of community and connection in advancing women’s heart health,” Alouisa said. “Their leadership will amplify this movement and help more women feel seen, informed and supported.”

The 2026 Westchester/Fairfield Go Red for Women celebration will bring together survivors, advocates, clinicians, volunteers and supporters for an evening dedicated to awareness, empowerment and action.

Join us in driving change for women’s heart health. To support the movement through leadership, fundraising or sponsorship, contact Chastidee Davis-Wright at Chastidee.Davis@heart.org or visit heart.org/goredwestchester.

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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, Instagram, 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).  

For Media Inquiries:

Bong Arquiza: Bong.Arquiza@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org