Two Jackson high School students named Youth Heart Ambassadors
KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
JACKSON, Mo., (KBSI) — Two Jackson Senior High School students have been selected by the American Heart Association to serve as Youth Heart Ambassadors for the 2025–2026 school year.
Senior Kate Lipke was named a national Youth Heart Ambassador, while junior Jimmy Williams was chosen as a local ambassador. They will join student leaders across the country in supporting the association’s Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, which promote heart health, stroke awareness and Hands-Only CPR education in schools.
“Youth leaders like Kate and Jimmy are inspiring examples of how students can shape the future of health in their communities,” said Sheri Donahue, school engagement director for the American Heart Association in Missouri.
Lipke, who was born with a heart condition and has undergone three open-heart surgeries, said she hopes to use her experience to motivate others. “Living with heart disease hasn’t stopped me from living a healthy lifestyle,” she said. “I’m excited to inspire kids and teens to live heart-healthy lives.”
Williams, who received a heart transplant at age 10 after being diagnosed with pediatric cardiomyopathy, said his volunteer work with the association has fueled his passion for advocacy. “Being an American Heart Association volunteer has shown me how powerful it is to help others,” he said. “It’s inspired me to share hope and support wherever I can.”
The American Heart Association’s school-based programs reach more than 20,000 schools nationwide with lessons on heart health, physical activity and confidence-building, while raising funds for research and education.
More information about the Kids Heart Challenge, American Heart Challenge and Youth Heart Ambassador nominations is available at heart.org/youthambassador.
