Two Indian American cardiologists from Duke University have taken on leadership roles at the American Heart Association for the 2026-27 fiscal year, aiming to enhance heart and brain health nationwide.
Two distinguished Indian American cardiologists from Duke University have assumed prominent leadership positions within the American Heart Association (AHA) as the organization embarks on its 2026-27 fiscal year, which began on July 1.
Dr. Manesh R. Patel, who serves as the chief of the Division of Cardiology at Duke Health, has been appointed as the new volunteer president of the AHA. He is joined by Dr. Svati H. Shah, an associate dean for translational research at the Duke University School of Medicine, who will serve as the volunteer president-elect.
Patel expressed the personal significance of this milestone, noting his pride in becoming the first South Asian individual to hold the role of volunteer president. He described this achievement as a reflection of his family’s journey and the values they instilled in him throughout his life.
In his capacity as volunteer president, Patel will act as the organization’s lead volunteer scientific and medical officer. With nearly three decades of experience in cardiovascular medicine, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. Patel earned his medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine before completing his residency and cardiology fellowship at Duke University.
His career has been marked by a strong focus on interventional cardiology, clinical trials, and antithrombotic therapies. Notably, he was recognized as the American Heart Association Physician of the Year in 2023.
Dr. Shah, serving alongside Patel as president-elect, will support the volunteer leadership structure with an emphasis on innovation, scientific discovery, and improved health outcomes. Her career uniquely combines genetics with cardiovascular care, and she holds the title of Ursula Geller Distinguished Professor of Research in Cardiovascular Diseases. Additionally, she directs both the Duke Center for Precision Health and the Adult Cardiovascular Genetics Clinic.
Shah earned her medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine, completed her residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and obtained a Master of Health Sciences from Duke University.
Nancy Brown, the chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, highlighted the organization’s reliance on the vision and expertise of its volunteer leaders. She stated that the newly appointed leadership team aims to enhance health resources on a global scale.
The two Duke specialists will work in collaboration with other national volunteer officers, including chairperson Lee A. Shapiro, who is in the second year of a two-year term, chairperson-elect Linda Gooden, and treasurer Robert H. Swan.
According to The American Bazaar, the leadership of Patel and Shah marks a significant moment for the AHA, reflecting a commitment to advancing heart and brain health across the nation.