Jessica L. Wood, DNP, WHNP-BC, RNC-OB to chair the American Heart Association’s Vermont 2024-2025 Go Red for Women® movement
Jessica Wood, director and associate professor at Norwich University School of Nursing will serve as the executive volunteer chairwoman of the 2024-2025 Vermont Go Red for Women® movement, a comprehensive platform designed more than two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. As the American Heart Association forges ahead into its second century, Wood will play a critical role by leading Vermont Go Red for Women.
According to the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD1. Heart disease and stroke continue to be Vermont women’s greatest health threat.
“My motivation to lead this vital initiative stems from the alarming statistics surrounding heart disease, the leading cause of death for women in the United States,” said Wood. “I want to expand the reach of the Go Red for Women campaign, ensuring that we not only raise awareness but also equip women with the tools and resources necessary to understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about their health. By serving as chairwoman, I will work with my team to create opportunities for collaboration, education and empowerment, making a lasting impact on women’s cardiovascular health.”
Wood’s career journey as both a labor and delivery registered nurse and women’s health nurse practitioner has given her a firsthand look at the impact of heart disease on women and their families. This has ignited her commitment to drive change for women at every age and stage of their lives.
Go Red for Women is a global movement with impact across the United States and in more than 50 countries around the world. This year’s Go Red for Women movement and its local achievements will be celebrated on April 24, 2025, at the Vermont Go Red for Women Event.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Vermont Go Red for Women Event is locally sponsored by Vermont Mutual Insurance Group, Miles Supply, Northwestern Medical Center. Media Sponsors include Star 92.9 and ABC22 & FOX44.
For more information, contact Brian Shankey at brian.shankey@heart.org or visit Heart.org/VTGoRed.