Every year across the country, a select group of individuals are nominated to be a part of Woman of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference. This nine-week competition is relentlessly focused on women’s heart health. Through April 10, 2025, nominees work to build campaign plans, recruit Impact teams, and inspire their networks to support the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission.
This year’s Woman of Impact participants include medical professionals, business leaders, educators, an employee wellbeing expert and a veteran. Learn more about each of the nominees and how you can support their campaigns.
Diana Ceban is the Executive Vice President of Military and Veteran Health at Tria Federal. As a Woman of Impact, Diana is passionate about educating women on the risk factors of cardiovascular disease and empowering them to adopt healthier lifestyles to mitigate its impact, in honor of her mother’s battle with hypertension. Diana hopes to ensure women throughout the GWR have access to the knowledge and resources they need to protect their hearts, and live longer, healthier lives. Learn more about Diana.
Sara Collins, MD, FACC is an Interventional Cardiologist at Chesapeake Cardiac Care and the Medical Site Director of Flourish Research Bowie. She is also a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and an active member of the Association of Black Cardiologists, where she co-chairs the health and public policy committee. Dr. Collins has conducted research on a variety of topics, including gender and racial disparities in cardiovascular disease. As a Woman of Impact, Dr. Collins is dedicated to using her platform to promote the inclusion of women in clinical trials, highlight the unique cardiovascular needs of women, and advance research that supports better health outcomes for women everywhere. Learn more about Sara.
Yolanda Lewis-Ragland, MD, FAAP is a double-board certified physician in pediatrics and obesity medicine, serving as Associate Medical Director at Elevance Health and Founder of the Dr. Yolanda Cares Foundation. Living and working in Ward 8, Dr. Yolanda is incredibly passionate about emphasizing the role of nutrition in heart health and addressing health disparities in underserved communities. As a Woman of Impact, she is dedicated to empowering families in D.C. with the knowledge and tools to live healthier lives, reduce chronic conditions, and build stronger, heart-healthy communities. Learn more about Yolanda.
Moneka Lyons is the Head of Learning, Training, and Development at Founder Shield. After losing her mother, Jeanette McPherson, to a heart attack during her commute home, Moneka became deeply committed to educating her network and family about heart health. This experience opened her eyes to the serious risks heart disease poses—not just to women, but to everyone. Now, she dedicates herself to helping others understand their risks and make meaningful lifestyle changes to live longer, healthier lives. Learn more about Moneka.
Taylohr Richardson is a United States Air Force veteran and Frontend Developer at CACI International Inc. She is an active community volunteer in Alexandria, VA working with organizations like the Lions Club. After losing her mother to heart disease last year, she wanted to join the Go Red for Women movement to honor her memory. As a Woman of Impact, Taylohr is dedicated to promoting prevention, healthy living, and inspiring women to prioritize their well-being. Learn more about Taylohr.
Andie Rowe is the Director of Employee Wellness and Work Life at American University. She’s been a longtime advocate for heart health as a Community Team Leader for the DC Heart Walks. Andie is incredibly enthusiastic about the mission of the American Heart Association and is committed to using her platform to educate others about the importance of heart health for women and the vital connection between mental health and physical well-being. Learn more about Andie.
Mai Tang works in Business Development at Pruitt Title, LLC and is the founder of Local Bestie NOVA/DC, a social media hub for women to connect and build relationships. Mai’s mission is to empower the women in her life and community to take control of their health. Through her campaign, she aims to help women understand their health risks, know their numbers, and take the necessary steps to protect their hearts. By encouraging women to be proactive in their health, Mai hopes to inspire them to live longer, healthier lives. Learn more about Mai.
At the end of the campaign, this special group of changemakers will be celebrated for the overall impact they have on our mission and community. The nominee who makes the greatest impact and raises the most funds locally will be named a local 2025 Woman of Impact Winner
The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region is grateful for the dedication and support of our Women of Impact.