Three local leaders are joining the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. These volunteers started their board term just as the group was recognized at the national level by the American Heart Association.
New board members include:
Gwen Crossett, B.S., RN – Gwen Crossett is the CEO and founder of ConstantCare247, which offers comprehensive in-home care, nursing services and skilled personal care services. Crossett is a registered nurse with more than 20 years of experience. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her three children and new granddaughter. Crossett will also serve as the Giving Society Ambassador as part of her role on the American Heart Association advisory board.
Lekia Hill – Lekia Hill is the branch and community development manager for Community Bank in the Syracuse region. She also serves as the lead consultant for Lekia Tech LLC and is the founder of the civic tech-based ecosystem application Powerful Voices App. Hill has dedicated her time to several community organizations over the last two decades, including the YWCA of Syracuse & Onondaga County and the Community Foundation’s Black Excellence & Equity Council.
Vanessa Szwejbka – Vanessa Szwejbka is the community relations manager and executive director of the AmeriCU Charitable Foundation. In her role, she focuses on expanding the Foundation’s reach and strengthening partnerships with local organizations. Szwebjka spent 15 years in broadcasting as a meteorologist before transitioning to community relations. When she is not working, Szwebjka likes to explore New York state parks with her husband and their two rescue dogs.
“The American Heart Association has a mission to save lives, but we can’t do that without volunteers,” said Heather Evans, executive director of the American Heart Association in Central New York. “The Syracuse advisory board is a group of dedicated local leaders that is truly making a difference in the health of our community.”
The new members join an award-winning advisory board. The Syracuse area advisory board has been honored with the national Gold Standard Board designation from the American Heart Association 12 times since 2012. The board was recently recognized again at the silver level.
Additional board members include:
- Chairperson Diane Benedetto, National Grid
- President Grahame Gould M.D., Upstate Medical University
- Nakeia Chambers, MC Ed, Upstate Medical University
- Pavi Chigateri, Kinney Drugs/KPH Healthcare
- Danielle Fiorello, Bonadio Group
- Amy Grover, M.S., ATC, Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists
- Joshua Harrison, M.D., Upstate Medical University
- Nelly Kazzaz, M.D., MBA, FACC, SJH Cardiology Associates at CMP
- Meredith Price, St. Joseph’s Health
- Lynne Shopiro, RN, Crouse Health
- Kelly Springer, M.S., RD, CDN, Kelly’s Choice, LLC