American Heart Association and Joe Simone Spearhead Health Research Video Series

The American Heart Association and real estate magnate Joe Simone are poised to reintroduce this ambitious video series The Heart of Innovation aimed at highlighting cutting-edge heart health research taking place right here in New York City.  In his role as President of Simone Development Companies, Mr. Simone creates spaces that bring technology, research and advanced healthcare to the Bronx, which is the least healthy borough in NYC. We hope this video inspires future research and celebrates New York City for being a hub for health research.

The American Heart Association, a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, has consistently championed healthcare equity and improving health outcomes for all Americans. Science and research is at the core of everything we do. The Association has funded more than $5 billion to research projects to help advance healthcare through the deployment of cutting-edge health science and technology.

Joe Simone, the president of Simone Development Companies, a prominent leader in the real estate sector, has been named Centennial Chair for the American Heart Association in New York City.

 Joe Simone, Centennial Chair, Heart of New York City

Joe Simone, the president of Simone Development Companies, a prominent leader in the real estate sector, has been named Centennial Chair for the American Heart Association in New York City. Joe and his family have been instrumental in bringing this special video project to life as sponsors of the Heart of New York City Campaign.

By serving this year as Chair of the Heart of New York City campaign in 2024, Joe Simone will hold the prestigious title of Centennial Chair as the American Heart Association will mark its 100th anniversary in 2024.

The Heart of Innovation

This four-part video series highlights science and this episode focuses on three researchers in New York City who have received  funding from the American Heart Association during the course of their careers. The world of research is a competitive one, and the underlying message we hear from every American Heart Association-funded researcher is “thank you.” Their work is made possible thanks to donors and supporters like you.

Meet the researchers:

Obesity and Diabetes research:

Ann Marie Schmidt, M.D
Editor-in-chief of Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology (ATVB) journal,  professor in the department of pathology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and the director of the Diabetes Research Program at NYU Langone Health, both in New York City.

Sleep science and heart health:

Ari Shechter, PhD,
Assistant Professor of Medical Sciences at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He received his PhD while in the laboratory of Dr. Diane Boivin at McGill University.

Inherited Arrhythmias:

Marina Cerrone, MD
Research Associate Professor, Department of Medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine

To learn more about our commitment to research:

The Bronx: No more 62

The Bronx has long struggled with healthcare disparities and system inequities in services and resources. Despite its rich cultural diversity and vibrant community spirit, the residents of this borough have faced numerous challenges in terms of health outcomes, which were only exacerbated with the COVID-19 pandemic . High rates of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions have disproportionately affected Bronx residents, making it clear that innovative solutions are needed to address these pressing issues.

More about the American Heart Association’s work in the Bronx:

Learn more about the Bronx CPR in Schools initiative

Association funds year-round Farm Stands in the Bronx sponsored by Rose Caiola

The collaboration between the American Heart Association and Simone Development Companies is a beacon of hope for the Bronx community.  This initiative aims to transform the health landscape of the Bronx, improving the lives of its residents and setting a shining example for other underserved communities across the nation. Through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, the Bronx is on the path to a healthier and more prosperous future.