Stories of Impact

The ACC Foundation's work supports individuals at every stage of their careers, creating ripple effects that extend to the patients, colleagues and communities they serve. Learn more about their stories below.

A man in a light gray suit, gold tie, and gold pocket square holds up a children's book.
 Seeing someone who looked like me, who understood my background and had succeeded in this field—it changed everything. It made me believe I could do this. 

Morgan Stanley

Morgan grew up in a small town in Mississippi, where access to health care was limited and role models in medicine were few. That changed when he was accepted into an ACC leadership development program that introduces high school and college students from diverse backgrounds to careers in cardiology.

Through the program, Morgan met an accomplished cardiologist mentor who, like Morgan, came from humble beginnings.

Today, Morgan is pursuing a career in cardiology. He's conducting health equity research, working with underserved communities, and even wrote a children's book to educate kids about heart health. He is making a difference not just in his life, but in the lives of others.

A man with dark hair, a beard, and wearing a black suit and red tie.
 Watching experts handle the most complex cases with such skill and precision gave me a new standard to strive for. It transformed how I approach my work and the care I provide my patients. 

Nayef Al-Asiri, MD

Growing up in Saudi Arabia, Nayef Al-Asiri dreamed of becoming a cardiologist who could bring world-class care to his community. That dream took a leap forward when he was selected for the Hani Najm Global Scholarship Award Observership at Cleveland Clinic.

Through the program, Al-Asiri trained alongside leading interventional cardiologists and observed complex procedures in the cath lab. He gained new confidence in his decision-making, strengthened his technical skills and discovered fresh ways to integrate research into patient care.

Today, Nayef is back home, caring for patients with renewed expertise and vision. The observership not only advanced his career, but also gave him tools to improve outcomes for those he serves.

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