On the Circuit: Middle Tennessee Heart Gala VIP Launch Party

For over 50 years, the Middle Tennessee Heart Gala has united devoted members of the American Heart Association to further awareness and raise funds for a shared vision — health and hope for everyone, everywhere. And to kick off the celebration in style, supporters gathered in the Memoir Wedgewood Houston lobby for the event’s VIP Launch Party. 

Guests mingled over delicacies, including mini grilled cheeses and spicy margaritas, and connected with friends, old and new. But the highlight of the evening occurred when Heart Gala chair William Haugh shared key insights into the event’s mission and bright future. 

William, whose family has a long-running history of cardiovascular disease, recognizes that the AHA’s work is crucial. Harnessing his 12 years of experience on the board, he intends to further the AHA’s impact while making the event a fun celebration and “the best gala yet.”

Attendees applauded for the many Leaders of Impact winners and nominees who populated the ambient room. Starting on Sept. 18, Leaders of Impact nominees will work to educate their communities, advocate for health and raise critical funds for life-saving research. After the seven-week campaign ends on Nov. 5, one standout nominee will be named the local Leaders of Impact winner, and the top nominee nationwide will be celebrated as the National Leaders of Impact Winner. 

Annie Thornhill, the AHA’s executive director, remarked on the space’s beauty, emphasizing that “The beauty in the room is because of the faces I’m looking at.” The night concluded with more laughter, more conversations and more cocktails, as guests built anticipation around the beloved Heart Gala.