Distinguished Banking Executive and Renowned Cardiologist to Lead Local Efforts to Improve Community Health
NEW YORK, NY — September 29, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a global leader in the fight for longer, healthier lives, has named its volunteer leadership for the 2025–2027 fiscal years in New York City. Effective July 1, Michael Kruse, a seasoned financial services executive, and Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, Director of the Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York City, have assumed the roles of Volunteer Chair and Volunteer President, respectively, guiding the Association’s mission and impact in New York City.
Michael Kruse brings extensive experience in global finance and strategic leadership to his role as Chair of the Association’s New York City Board of Directors. Mr. Kruse will lead the region’s volunteer board, overseeing community initiatives, fundraising, and advocacy to advance the American Heart Association’s mission of saving lives and promoting heart health.
Mr. Kruse previously chaired the New York City Heart Challenge, a community campaign encouraging local organizations, employers and individuals to take action against heart disease and stroke.
“I am honored to serve as Chair of the board for the American Heart Association in New York City,” said Mr. Kruse. “It’s a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated team of volunteers and staff, all united in our mission to improve the health and well-being of our community.”
Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, MBA, FACC, FAHA, FESC, MSCAI, also serves as the Dr. Valentin Fuster Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Dr. Bhatt leads the educational, research, and clinical cardiovascular work within the Mount Sinai Health System.
Dr. Bhatt is highly recognized for his significant breakthroughs in the field of cardiology, including interventional cardiology, heart disease prevention, vascular medicine, and heart failure.
After graduating as valedictorian from Boston Latin School, Dr. Bhatt obtained his science degree as a National Merit Scholar at MIT, his MD from Cornell, an MPH from Harvard, and an Executive MBA from Oxford.
As President of the American Heart Association’s New York City Board, he will serve as the lead volunteer scientific and medical advisor, shaping the Association’s strategic priorities in the region.
“It is a great honor to serve as President of the American Heart Association in New York City,” said Dr. Bhatt. I look forward to advancing our mission to create a healthier future for all New Yorkers, particularly as the organization prioritizes efforts to broaden hands-only CPR awareness and address the burden of high blood pressure in our communities.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Michael Kruse and Dr. Bhatt as our new volunteer leaders of the board,” said Meg Gilmartin, Region Senior Vice President and Executive Director of Development & Community Health for the American Heart Association. “Their expertise, leadership, and commitment to our mission will be instrumental as we continue driving bold, innovative solutions to improve health and well-being across New York City.”