Member News
Does your business have exciting news it wants to share with the rest of the Anchorage Chamber membership? To submit an announcement, log in to your Anchorage Chamber profile and complete a News Release. For assistance accessing your account, call (907) 272-2401.
Anchorage Chamber staff will review and approve all submissions.
Local healthcare leaders to serve as co-chairpersons for 2025 Alaska Heart Run & Walk
Community leaders champion the American Heart Association’s annual campaign to fight heart disease and stroke in Alaska, culminating on Sept. 20, 2025, at Alaska Airlines Center
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, July 8, 2025 – The American Heart Association has named Lucretia Craig, RN, MSM, BSN, CPC, principal owner, Gemini Executive & Professional Coaching, and Robert “Bob” Craig, chief executive officer, Alaska Heart & Vascular Institute, as the community volunteer co-chairpersons for the 2025 Alaska Heart Run & Walk. This annual event, accompanied by a fundraising campaign, aims to combat heart disease and stroke—two of the leading causes of death in both the U.S. and Alaska. This year’s event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage.
“As a cardiology registered nurse for more than 38 years, I saw firsthand the power of prevention and ways in which it’s possible to overcome heart disease and stroke,” said Lucretia Craig. “In my role with the Alaska Heart Run & Walk, I hope to honor those journeys and help empower others to take control of their heart health and future.”
“Our work at Alaska Heart & Vascular Institute is driven by the belief that every heartbeat matters,” said Bob Craig. “It’s an honor to help lead this campaign and rally our community around lifesaving science, improved patient support and a future free from cardiovascular disease. Together we can make a difference right here in Alaska.”
The Craigs will be joined by fellow executives seeking to make an impact. The 2025 Alaska Heart Run & Walk leadership team includes:
- Dawn McQuay, Santos
- Angela Laflamme, Alaska Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs
- Merry Braham, Al Bowler - State Farm
- Jennifer Schrage, Signature Land Services
“The Alaska Heart Run & Walk is an inspiring and meaningful way for Anchorage to unite in the fight against heart disease and stroke,” said Chrissy Colucci, executive director, American Heart Association in Alaska. “We deeply appreciate the Craig's unwavering commitment, knowledge, and enthusiasm for our cause. Leaders like them play a vital role in advancing our mission to save lives and bring hope to families impacted by cardiovascular disease.”
Local teams have already started to form and commence fundraising. Participants can register for the event at AlaskaHeartRun.org. From there, they can create personal fundraising pages, download the Heart Walk mobile app, and encourage family and friends to join. Companies interested in participating can contact Deborah Rinckey at Deborah.rinckey@heart.org.
Funds raised go toward the American Heart Association’s work to advance lifesaving research, education and health for all people. Locally in Alaska, the Association has helped expand access to CPR skills, ensured local heart and stroke patients are connected to the latest science-based treatments via its hospital programs, and supported community members managing high blood pressure with tools and resources for better blood pressure control.
The Alaska Heart Run & Walk is supported locally by Live Fierce. End Tobacco & Vaping sponsor Alaska Heart & Vascular Institute and Live Fierce Alaska sponsor Providence Alaska.
Additional Resources:
###
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with the American Heart Association in Alaska on heart.org/Alaska, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Lily Gordon: lily.gordon@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
