The American Heart Association is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Heart of Gold Awards, which will be presented at the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball on Saturday, March 1, at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made a profound impact on heart health, stroke prevention, and community wellness in Central Massachusetts.
Each year, the American Heart Association honors those who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes and advancing lifesaving initiatives in Central Massachusetts. This year’s awardees are Fidelity Bank, Dr. Lawrence Rosenthal, and Dr. David Sommer.
Fidelity Bank – Heart of Gold Award for Community Leader
Fidelity Bank will receive the Heart of Gold Community Leader Award for its dedication to heart health education and CPR training across the region. A longtime supporter of the American Heart Association, Fidelity Bank has provided 36 CPR training kits to the community, hosted Hands-Only CPR training sessions for employees and the public and used its platforms to raise awareness about heart health. Through these efforts, the bank is ensuring more people are prepared to act in an emergency.
Dr. Lawrence Rosenthal – Heart of Gold Award for Heart and Vascular Medical Professional
Dr. Lawrence Rosenthal, director of cardiac devices and electrophysiology at UMass Memorial Medical Center, is being honored for his nearly 30 years of advancing treatments for heart rhythm disorders and stroke prevention. A pioneer in atrial fibrillation ablation and pacemaker lead extraction, Dr. Rosenthal has brought pulsed field ablation—a groundbreaking, safer, and more effective heart rhythm treatment—to Central Massachusetts. Known for his skill, innovation, and dedication, he has changed countless lives through his work in electrophysiology.
Dr. David Sommer – Heart of Gold Award for Neurology Medical Professional
Dr. David Sommer, a neurologist with Reliant Medical Group and Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester, is being recognized for his expertise in stroke prevention and movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. Originally drawn to science, Dr. Sommer found his true calling in medicine, blending his fascination with the brain with hands-on patient care. Through a holistic approach, he builds trusted, long-term relationships with his patients, guiding them through life-changing treatments and improving neurological health in the region.
“These outstanding honorees embody the mission of the American Heart Association by advancing heart and brain health in our community,” said Brian Shankey, executive director of the American Heart Association in Central Massachusetts. “Their dedication to improving patient outcomes and spreading awareness has made a lasting impact, and we are thrilled to celebrate their achievements.”
The Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball brings together leaders in healthcare, business, and the community to raise critical funds for cardiovascular and stroke research, prevention, and education.
For more information about the event or to support the American Heart Association, visit heart.org/CentralMAHB.