DALLAS - September 18, 2025 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - By age 18, according to an American Heart Association scientific statement, many young Americans have already developed cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or Type 2 diabetes[1]. The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is investing in the next generation of student leaders working to reverse that trend by awarding scholarships through its school-based initiative, the American Heart Challenge™.

Five $1,000 scholarships are awarded annually to high school students across the country who are passionate about heart health and exhibit exceptional leadership qualities. Students are recommended by their school’s American Heart Challenge program advisers and selected for their commitment to improving their own health and the health of their communities.

“These outstanding student leaders model healthy choices and inspire their peers to do the same,” said Lee A. Shapiro, J.D., volunteer chair of the American Heart Association and managing partner and co-founder at 7wireVentures, an investment firm headquartered in Chicago. “They aren’t just the future of health; they’re helping shape it today.”

2024-25 scholarship recipients include:

• Addison Gralund, Senior - Central City High School (Central City, Iowa)
  Addison is a congenital heart defect survivor and longtime American Heart Association volunteer. She is using her scholarship to pursue her dream of becoming a cardiologist.
   
• Ashley LoMonaco, Senior - DePaul Catholic High School (Wayne, New Jersey)
  Ashley is an advocate for heart health, inspired by her grandfather who lives with heart disease. She is using her scholarship to pursue a degree at Dartmouth College, where she plans to continue spreading heart health awareness.
   
• Jack Waranavage, Senior - Crest High School (Lebanon, Pennsylvania)
  Jack is an athlete who uses his platform to inspire others to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. He is using his scholarship to pursue a degree and athletic career at Muhlenberg College.
   
• Jameson Calvery, Senior - Saint Michael Catholic High School (Fairhope, Alabama)
  Jameson began experiencing heart issues after contracting COVID-19, leading him to develop a passion for physical and mental health. He is using his scholarship to attend Florida State University, where he plans to major in biomedical engineering.
   
• Zoey Bloomquist, Junior - Veterans Memorial High School (Corpus Christi, Texas)
  Zoey is a congenital heart defect survivor and an avid supporter of the American Heart Association. She plans to use her scholarship to purchase a laptop and help pay for tuition at Texas A&M University - Kingsville.

The American Heart Challenge engages middle and high school students in service-learning activities that make a difference. Participants raise awareness and funds to support the Association’s work around CPR education, improving physical and mental health, advancing scientific research and more in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

To learn about bringing the American Heart Challenge to your school, visit www.heart.org/getstarted.

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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, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Afton Fairchild, afton.fairchild@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org

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