As the American Heart Association kicks off its centennial year, John Hickey, senior consultant for market development for UPMC Health Plan in the Central Region, has been named chair of this year's Capital Region Heart Ball.

As senior consultant for market development for UPMC Health Plan, Hickey provides leadership and direction for plan development in the region. Prior to joining UPMC, he served as chief operating officer of Lee & Associates of Eastern Pennsylvania and as president of Sutliff Chevrolet. He also served as general counsel to another central Pennsylvania-based managed care organization.

Hickey began his career serving as a United States naval officer, and he has maintained a commitment to community service as a member of several nonprofit boards of directors. He previously served as chair of the American Heart Association's 2019 Capital Region Heart Walk.

"Events like the Heart Ball bring together people throughout our community who are passionate about supporting the American Heart Association's mission, and for many of us it's personal," said Hickey. "I lost my father to a heart attack at age 52, and heart disease claims the lives of thousands of people in our region every year. However, there are also thousands of families who are enjoying more years with their loved ones thanks to the relentless work of the American Heart Association. We've come so far over the past 100 years, and we're committed to continuing this legacy."

The 2024 Capital Region Heart Ball, presented by UPMC and UPMC Health Plan, is set for Saturday, Feb. 24, at 6 p.m. at the Hershey Lodge, 325 University Drive, Hershey. The annual event is a night to acknowledge the association's year-round efforts to drive health equity in the Harrisburg area. In honor of the association's centennial celebration, the event will also recognize its 100-year history of pioneering scientific discoveries, advocating for healthy communities and helping to reduce heart disease and stroke death rates.

Throughout the evening, the American Heart Association will honor volunteers and patrons, feature stories of survivors, and offer dinner, dancing, and an auction. For more information on how to support or attend the Capital Region Heart Ball, visit http://www.heart.org/hbgheartball or contact Tony Duffy at tony.duffy@heart.org or 717-730-1743.

Through collaboration with numerous organizations and powered by millions of volunteers, the Dallas-based American Heart Association funds research, advocates for the public's health and shares lifesaving resources. To learn more, visit http://www.heart.org, connect with the organization on social media, or call 1-800-AHA-USA1.