Dr. Meghana Rao Brito of Yale New Haven Health, Yale School of Medicine, and Nicole DeMaio of Downes Construction named co-chairs of signature event
The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to world of healthier lives for all, is pleased to announce the co-chairs of the 2026 Greater New Haven Go Red for Women Reception. Dr. Meghana Rao Brito, Assistant Professor of Medicine (Cardiovascular), Yale School of Medicine; Medical Director, Echocardiography Laboratory, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital; Director, Women’s Heart and Vascular Center, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital and Nicole DeMaio, Vice President of Business Development, Downes Construction, will co-chair and lead the women-focused signature event.
Go Red for Women is a worldwide initiative of the American Heart Association designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally and globally.
“As a cardiologist, I see the impact that cardiovascular disease has on women’s heart health and the need to learn more about risk factors and prevention,” said Dr. Rao Brito. “This event provides an opportunity for women to connect with innovators in the field for information, motivation and inspiration. Together we are funding research to advance solutions specific to women’s unique health experiences and working to ensure that every woman, everywhere receives the care and support she needs.”
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Cardiovascular disease continues to be a woman’s greatest health threat, taking the life of one in every three women.
“I look forward to working with Dr. Rao Brito and the Executive Leadership Team to help bring awareness to this critical issue,” said DeMaio. “Cardiovascular disease is personal and complex. Women have been under-represented and under-supported for too long. With inequities in research, treatment and funding, we need to work together to support each other and this cause. This event can do just that by providing tools and resources needed for women to lead heart-healthy lives and raise critical funds.”
Since 2004, Go Red for Women has had a profound impact on women’s health. As the trusted and relevant force to eradicate heart disease and stroke through the Go Red for Women movement, the American Heart Association remains steadfast and committed to meeting the comprehensive health needs of women — at every life stage.
“The 2026 Go Red for Women reception marks our 10th anniversary in Greater New Haven. We are thrilled to have Nicole DeMaio and Dr. Meghana Rao Brito leading the Go Red for Women movement in Greater New Haven,” said American Heart Association Connecticut Executive Director, Adria Giordano. “Together, we know that we will have a positive impact on the lives of women in our community and the families that depend on them.”
For more information about the New Haven Go Red for Women, contact Development Director Chelsea DeGroat, Chelsea.DeGroat@heart.org
For information on women’s heart health visit www.goredforwomen.org.