American Heart Association Welcomes New SVP of Health Strategies Dr. Jeff Willett

The American Heart Association (www.heart.org) , Midwest Affiliate has named Dr. Jeff Willett senior vice president of health strategies. He will oversee strategies that advance the work of the Association including changing policy, leading breakthroughs in science and technology, changing systems, transforming healthcare, and changing communities.

“Dr. Willett joins the Association with more than 20 years of experience in non-profit health leadership. He brings a strong background in health policy, community health, research and evaluation and media relations,” said Kevin Harker, executive vice president of American Heart Association.

Most recently, Dr. Willett was the vice president of the Truth Initiative in Washington D.C., where he oversaw a team of health policy researchers focused on tobacco prevention. Closer to home, he spent five years as vice president of programs and policy for the Kansas Health Foundation. Jeff earned a Ph.D. in Sociology with a focus on health and a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.

“I’m excited for this opportunity; the American Heart Association has an incredible team of staff, volunteers, and partners working to create opportunities for all people to live healthier lives,” Dr. Willett said. “It’s an honor to work alongside the individuals who are improving health in our communities.”

The American Heart Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease. Learn more at www.heart.org.