The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) honored Queen Latifah, along with other distinguished honorees at its seventh annual “Spirit of the Heart” Awards Gala on Saturday, October 1st at Cipriani 42nd Street.
Each year, this prestigious gala recognizes individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to cardiology and the advancement of health equity by eliminating cardiovascular disease disparities. The event benefits ABC’s ongoing clinical research, “Spirit of the Heart” community outreach, and advocacy for heart disease prevention. Proceeds also support the education of underrepresented minorities in the field of cardiology through ABC’s fellowship awards.
Celebrity Screen Actor and Health Advocate Lamman Rucker served as the Master of Ceremonies. Special highlights included live music entertainment and the attendance of notable industry leaders, patient advocates, and allied healthcare professionals.
The incomparable multi-talented entertainer Queen Latifah was honored with the Distinguished Health Advocate Award for her active promotion of preventative care and advancement of reduction in cardiovascular disease disparities. Inspired by her mother Rita Owens’ positive management of heart failure, Latifah has been an effective voice in heart health advocacy.
The other honorable recipients and organizations included: Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD (The Mt. Sinai Medical Hospital) – Dr. Walter M. Booker, Sr. Health Promotion Award; Michael J. Dowling(Northwell Health) – ABC Spirit of the Heart Award; Luther T. Clark, MD (Merck and Co.) – ABC Distinguished Leadership Award; Arbor Pharmaceuticals, LLC accepted by Ed Schutter – ABC Health Equity Award; Yele Aluko, MD, MBA– (Novant Health Heart and Vascular Institute) – ABC Mentorship Award; Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University accepted by Vincent J.B. Robinson, MD – ABC Diversity in Cardiology Award; Felipe C. Robinson, MD – Founding Member of The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC Visionary Award) posthumously accepted by his daughter, Erron Al-Amin.
For more information on the Association of Black Cardiologists, visit http://www.abcardio.org
RED CARPET HIGHLIGHTS
Photo Credit: Antoine Debrill
