This year, Austin Go Red for Women has launched its inaugural Woman of Impact campaign. Women from the Austin community are nominated to be a part of this initiative because of their passion and drive to make a difference for the American Heart Association. The campaign launched March 3, 2021 and will end on April 28, 2021 with a celebration of the overall impact this special group of women have made on our mission and community. In addition, the woman who brings her network together to have the largest impact will be named the Austin Woman of Impact Award Winner.
This year’s inaugural group of nominees includes Megan Drake from Heart Hospital of Austin, Bennett Maggio from Abbott, Nella Rodriguez from Higginbotham, Katie Stewart from DPR Construction, and CaLondra Yarbrough from Workplace Resource.
Megan Drake – Heart Hospital of Austin
Megan Drake has a significant family history of heart conditions, including her father who had a heart attack and multiple heart catheterizations. At the Heart Hospital of Austin, she has encountered many people professionally who are fighting for their lives with heart disease. Megan is excited to be part of the Go Red for Women’s Woman of Impact campaign.
Bennett Maggio – Abbott
Bennett Maggio’s story begins in 2008 just as she was starting the spring semester of her freshman year at college, her father suffered a massive heart attack and died. In 2016, stroke took the life of Bennett’s father-in-law. Today, her grandmother who beat breast cancer battles heart failure. Heart disease and stroke have had profound direct impacts on Bennett’s life over the years. With her work today at Abbott, Bennett continues to work for better heart health for all. Aside from volunteering with the American Heart Association, Bennett enjoys weekend mornings at Zilker Park with her dog Arnie, travelling with her husband Nick, cheering on the Texas Tech Red Raiders whenever they come to Austin, and catching shows at The ZACH Theatre.
Nella Rodriguez – Higginbotham
Nella Rodriguez was born in Lima, Peru but moved to Houston, TX at 7 years old. After attending Texas A&M on a full ride scholarship, she graduated with a Business Management degree and an intent to empower and develop future leaders. She joined the insurance industry in 2016, and quickly obtained her CISR, CIC and CRM designation in 4 years. Aside from coverage analyses and renewal terms negotiations, she loves to Salsa dance and has taught a few classes for the Austin office. Although the Ladies Salsa Team is on pause, she has continued to take online classes from professional dancers all over the world. It’s a great way to de-stress, stay active, and be healthy!
Katie Stewart – DPR Construction
Katie Stewart has always been a proponent of a healthy, active, and balanced lifestyle. At DPR Construction, she aims to lead by example as one of their Wellness Champions and as a Volunteer Pacer for the Austin Marathon. When Katie learned that 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable, she knew she had to do more. By raising awareness and making healthy lifestyle adjustments, she realized 80% of women could significantly reduce their risk of heart disease! So, she jumped at the opportunity to participate in the 2021 Austin Woman of Impact Campaign to do her part in helping women prevent heart disease so they may live long, healthy, happy lives.
CaLondra Yarbrough – Workplace Resource
CaLondra Yarbrough works as A&D Sales representative for Workplace Resource. Her demonstrated leadership skills and knowledge compliment the outstanding Workplace Resource team’s efforts in both business and philanthropy. Originally from Colorado, CaLondra relocated to Austin in 2010 to escape the snow and has called Austin home ever since. She is passionate about volunteering and giving back, and she enjoys connecting with people and organizations to learn more about how to support the Austin community.
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As of March 25, 2021, the Austin Woman of Impact nominees have raised over $45,000. Join us in raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, so that more women know their risk and learn ways to improve and maintain their health. Help us raise critically needed funds to support research and education initiatives of the Go Red for Women movement. Together, we can save and improve the lives of women. Because there is no greater, more relentless force in the world than women united with passion and purpose. Learn more.