#United States #New York #Cardiovascular Health #Association of Black Cardiologists #Spirit of the Heart

The 2026 Spirit of the Heart Awards: Honoring Excellence in Cardiovascular Health

The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) has announced the esteemed honorees for the 2026 Spirit of the Heart Awards, to be held on October 3, 2026, at the historic Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. This celebration marks the 16th anniversary of the event, which has consistently highlighted critical advancements in heart health and advocacy over the years.

The Spirit of the Heart Awards epitomizes ABC’s commitment to addressing the pressing question of who is actively working to improve outcomes for patients in need. This year, five distinguished leaders and organizations will be recognized for their extraordinary contributions.

Honorees of the Year

The 2026 honorees include:

• - Dr. Tiffany M. Powell-Wiley
• - Dr. Anekwe E. Onwuanyi
• - Flourish Research
• - Merck
• - Georgia Arrhythmia Consultants Research Institute

These recipients have made remarkable strides in cardiovascular health, each contributing to the field in unique ways tailored to the disparities faced by various communities across the nation.

Recognizing Leadership and Innovation

Distinguished Leadership Award

The Distinguished Leadership Award is presented to individuals who exemplify outstanding careers within cardiology. Dr. Anekwe E. Onwuanyi stands out for his impactful role at Morehouse School of Medicine, where he led initiatives to enhance clinical practice and provided mentorship to budding professionals. Meanwhile, Dr. Tiffany M. Powell-Wiley has made significant contributions through her research at the National Institutes of Health, focusing on the interplay between social determinants of health and cardiovascular risks, further influencing public health initiatives.

Health Promotion Excellence

The Dr. Walter M. Booker Sr. Health Promotion Award honors organizations leading transformative health initiatives. The Georgia Arrhythmia Consultants Research Institute, through its grassroots efforts, has fundamentally impacted the health landscape of Middle Georgia. Through their foundation, they promote education around sudden cardiac arrest and provide essential training in CPR and AED usage, empowering the community to respond effectively to emergencies.

Advancing Health Equity

Receiving the Health Equity Award, Flourish Research demonstrates a commitment to broadening access to clinical research. Their innovative approach situates research opportunities within the communities where patients reside, enhancing trust and participation in studies while ensuring diverse representation among staff and research participants. This effort has yielded high retention rates and positive health outcomes, serving as a model for future research initiatives.

Corporate Excellence

The Spirit of the Heart Award will be awarded to Merck for their longstanding support and partnership with ABC. Their continuous investment in cardiovascular research and community engagement showcases their dedication to advancing heart health among underserved populations. Notable initiatives include support for maternal cardiovascular health, aligning with ABC’s mission to eliminate health disparities.

More Than Just an Award Ceremony

This event is not merely a celebration; it is a vital fundraising effort that supports ABC’s ongoing work in education, advocacy, and prevention. In addition to honoring this year’s recipients, ABC will soon announce new scholarship recipients, further investing in the next generation of cardiovascular professionals.

Conclusion

The 2026 Spirit of the Heart Awards promises to be an inspiring occasion that emphasizes the importance of leadership, mentorship, and innovation in advancing cardiovascular health. ABC’s commitment to making every heart count will echo throughout this gathering of esteemed colleagues, partners, and supporters. Together, they honor the legacy of those who have paved the way and shape the future of heart health for all communities.