Social Scene: Heart Ball Honors Progress and Hope

Hundreds of supporters of the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region gathered at the Waldorf Astoria on March 28 for the annual Heart Ball, an evening that celebrated lifesaving progress, honored community leadership and renewed a shared commitment to advancing health and hope as the organization enters its second century.

The Association’s Executive Director Soula Antoniou opened the program by welcoming guests and introducing the American Heart Association’s work broken down into four areas or chambers: access, knowledge, discovery and advocacy. Modeled after the chambers of the human heart, the framework reflects how the organization drives impact locally and nationwide.

“These chambers symbolize the vision that brings health and hope to everyone, everywhere,” Antoniou said.

The mission came to life on stage through four local leaders. Erin Henderson Moore of Fidelis Care of New Jersey at Centene Corporation highlighted access and the importance of removing barriers to care. Lauren Culbertson of Sheehy Auto Stores emphasized knowledge through workplace wellness initiatives and employee education across the region. Emily Holliman of Kaiser Permanente showcased discovery by describing how innovation, technology and coordinated care impact patient outcomes. Pediatrician Yolandra Hancock, MD, MPH, underscored advocacy and her work advancing policies that improve health for children and families.

Heart Ball Chair Eduardo Ortiz, CEO of Coforma, then addressed guests and shared his personal connection to the American Heart Association’s mission. He reflected on the loss of his sister after a long battle with cancer that ultimately affected her heart, as well as his own experience as a veteran.

“As a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, I have seen firsthand how health disparities affect people who deserve better,” he said. “Under-resourced communities, especially veterans and people of color, face higher risks of heart disease and far too many barriers to accessing quality care. I believe we can and must change that reality.”

The program continued with a lively and meaningful auction led by auctioneer Tom Stebbins and his daughter, Lyla Stebbins, a congenital heart defect survivor and rising young auctioneer. One of the most powerful moments of the evening was the Open Your Heart appeal, which featured youth heart ambassador Kayleigh Williams, an energetic 8-year-old who defied the odds in spite of multiple health challenges.

Board Chair Vishal Tulsian of Reli Group closed the formal program with the Caretakers of the Torch segment, reflecting on the American Heart Association’s enduring heart and flame symbol and recognizing individuals who exemplify the mission. Honored as Caretakers of the Torch were Rocky Thurston of DMI, MeeRan Anderson of Claritev and Erin Adelekun, a Go Red for Women ambassador and stroke survivor.

“The torch still lights the path to save and improve lives,” Tulsian said. “And that light grows stronger because of people like you.”

The evening concluded with celebration as guests danced to the music of the Bachelor Boys band, closing out a night defined by purpose, progress and collective impact.

Photos below by Uzi Photography.

tagsAmerican Heart Associationdc social sceneheart ballsocial scene