AMARILLO, Texas, Dec. 1, 2025 -- Melissa Smith, a Region 16 school health specialist dedicated to improving student well-being in schools across the Texas panhandle, has been honored by the American Heart Association for her outstanding efforts to promote heart health. Smith received national recognition during a recent virtual awards ceremony.
She was one of nine honorees from across the country celebrated for their leadership in the Association's in-school programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, which empower students to build healthy habits and support lifesaving research. The annual event brings together volunteers, educators and students nationwide to spotlight individuals and schools making a measurable impact on youth health.
"Helping kids learn healthy habits early is one of the most rewarding parts of my work," said Smith. "When students understand how choices like eating smart and staying active affect their future, they're not just changing their own lives -- they're influencing their families and communities too."
One in every five American children and teens is obese; that's up 35% from 2000, as severe childhood obesity rates have nearly doubled in that time[1]. Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, grounded in science, reach more than 10 million students in approximately 20,000 U.S. schools each year. Participants and their families learn how to eat smart, manage stress, avoid tobacco and vaping, recognize warning signs of a heart attack and stroke and more. Students are also introduced to Hands-Only CPR, a lifesaving skill that school-aged children can learn and, by age 12, effectively use if they witness a sudden cardiac arrest.
Award recipients participated in either Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge during the 2024-25 school year and were nominated by Association staff.
Learn more about the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge and how to get involved at heart.org/jointhechallenge.
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 a 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 us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.