The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, today announced that it has accepted local cardiologist, Dr. Caitlin Giesler to its Board of Directors. Dr. Giesler is currently the Director of the Women’s Heart Center at Ascension Seton in Austin, Texas. Dr. Giesler began her career practicing general cardiology and in 2017 transitioned to treating and investigating cardiovascular diseases in women full time. She is currently the principal investigator on several research studies at Ascension Seton including the HARP and WARRIOR Trials.
Dr. Giesler is passionate about women’s heart and brain health and has served the American Heart Association in a variety of roles, specifically with the Go Red for Women® and Vestido Rojo campaigns. In July of 2022, she will assume the role of Board President, a role that is responsible for representing and guiding the organization on science, medical, health and public policy matters. Giesler is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, a member of the Travis County Medical Society and Texas Medical Association.
“We are beyond excited to welcome Dr. Giesler to the Austin Area AHA Board of Directors. Her work has impacted the lives of thousands of Texas women and she deeply understands the unique needs women have when it comes to heart and brain health,” said Joel Rice, executive director of the American Heart Association. “Dr. Giesler’s leadership, focus and willingness to go above and beyond will be instrumental to the success of our impact.”
New board members serve one two-year term with the option of serving two additional terms. The American Heart Association engages leaders from several Austin organizations to join forces and make a positive health impact on the community through awareness building, fundraising and advocating for policy changes that improve heart health and patient care.
Welcome, Dr. Giesler!
Meet Austin’s Community Impact Director – Catalina Berry
Catalina Berry is passionate about inspiring healthy living, community and giving back in her personal and professional life. After being an active volunteer for the American Heart Association for over ten years, Catalina is now the Community Impact Director for the American Heart Association Central Texas Market. Her work in her current role is around policy, systems, and environmental changes in the community with a focus in health equity. Growing up bi-cultural and bilingual has helped shape Catalina into who she is today as she strives to be a positive influence in the community.