Leadership in Women’s Heart Health: Lori Coulter Takes Charge of Go Red for Women Initiative in St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, October 7, 2025 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the primary cause of mortality among women in St. Louis and throughout the United States. In an effort to combat this alarming trend, the American Heart Association (AHA) is spearheading initiatives aimed at promoting heart health among women. Central to these efforts is Lori Coulter, co-founder and CEO of Summersalt, who has been appointed as the 2026 chair of the St. Louis Go Red for Women® campaign.

Raising Awareness About Heart Health

Coulter is committed to empowering women to prioritize their heart health while addressing significant gaps in research, education, and access to care. “As women, our days are packed, and life rarely slows down—but women’s health deserves attention now, not later,” she stated. “Go Red for Women is a call to action: Red Means Go, for our hearts, our futures and every woman who matters to us.”

Currently, less than 50% of women are aware of their risk for CVD, highlighting an urgent need for increased education and outreach. The Go Red for Women campaign is dedicated to bridging the gaps in care and creating a supportive community that addresses the specific health and wellness needs of women at every stage of life.

A Community of Support

Jennifer Jaeger, executive director of the American Heart Association in St. Louis, emphasized the importance of mutual encouragement among women. “There is one source of support women can count on — each other. Lori’s unwavering passion and dedication to the Go Red for Women movement is creating a ripple of change in St. Louis,” Jaeger noted.

Upcoming Events and Initiatives

The Go Red for Women initiative will celebrate its accomplishments during the St. Louis Go Red for Women Luncheon scheduled for April 24, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. Now in its 21st year, this event will introduce a novel program centered on storytelling, moving beyond traditional presentations. Attendees will not only learn about heart health but also experience an interactive health and wellness expo that transforms inspiration into actionable steps.

Nationally, Go Red for Women is sponsored by CVS Health, reinforcing the collaborative effort to address women’s heart health issues. For further inquiries, please reach out to Rosie Schott at Rosie.Schott@heart.org or visit www.heart.org/stlouisgored.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a leading force committed to creating a world of longer, healthier lives. With a focus on equitable health across communities, the organization has been at the forefront of health information for over a century. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, it funds vital research, advocates for public health, and provides essential resources to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke. Visit heart.org for more information.

About Go Red for Women®

The Go Red for Women® initiative is the American Heart Association’s signature project, designed to enhance awareness of women’s heart health and act as a catalyst for change on a global scale. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women, responsible for claiming one life every minute. Since its inception, the movement has encouraged awareness, urging women to understand their risk factors and take proactive measures for a heart-healthy life. For additional information, go to GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).

For media inquiries, please contact Madelyn Alexander at Madelyn.Alexander@heart.org. For public inquiries, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).