In recognition of her outstanding career, leadership, and commitment to promoting cardiovascular health on an international level, Johanna Contreras, a UIS physician and cardiology specialist, was honored for her international leadership and for spearheading initiatives that are now impacting the lives of women in more than 27 countries in the Americas.
Dr. Contreras was awarded the 2026 Ron Haddock International Impact Award, a recognition that highlights her contribution to the development of initiatives aimed at transforming the lives of communities, particularly by strengthening the prevention and care of cardiovascular diseases in women.
She graduated from UIS 28 years ago. Inspired by her experiences growing up in Colombia, Dr. Contreras turned her personal experiences into a motivation to take impactful action. As part of this mission, she contributed to the launch of “Corazón de mamá,” a collaborative initiative of the InterAmerican Heart Foundation and the Inter-American Society of Cardiology, with the support of the American Heart Association, of which she is a founding member.
Currently, “Corazón de mamá” is establishing itself as a leading program in the region, with a presence in more than 27 countries in the Americas, promoting education, prevention, and awareness about the importance of women’s cardiovascular health.
This recognition of Dr. Contreras highlights a career marked by a dedication to service, innovation, and the conviction that it is possible to bring about meaningful change by making healthcare more accessible to individuals and communities.
Her work embodies the spirit of the American Heart Association, rooted in the constant search for solutions and the belief that “there is always a way” to transform lives.
With this important international recognition, Dr. Johanna Contreras reaffirms her commitment to cardiovascular health and leaves her mark as a leader who inspires action to build a healthier future for women in the Americas.
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition of your leadership and contribution to global health!
