Highcliff nurse Amanda Lemon nominated as American Heart Association Leader of Impact

The American Heart Association has recognized Amanda Lemon, nurse at Highcliff Elementary School, as a 2025 Leader of Impact nominee.

Over the next seven weeks, Lemon and her Impact Team will work to make a difference in the fight against heart disease — the nation’s leading cause of death. Their efforts will focus on educating the community about cardiovascular health, advocating for healthier lifestyles, and raising vital funds to support lifesaving research.

At the conclusion of the campaign, one nominee will be named the local Leader of Impact winner, with the top nominee nationwide earning the title of National Leader of Impact Winner.

Lemon has seen firsthand the effects of heart disease and said she is honored to take part in the Leaders of Impact campaign.

"At 9 years old, my son, Sebastian, was diagnosed with a heart condition that turned our lives upside down," she shared. "We quickly realized that many people are not knowledgeable about heart health or trained in how to respond in an emergency. As a school nurse, I am in a position to help influence health in our community. Sebastian's passion for advocacy and emergency training has inspired me to promote the Kids Heart Challenge in local schools and to train staff and students in CPR and emergency response. My school is also the first in Allegheny County to be designated as a Heart Safe School through Project ADAM."

Community members who wish to learn more or support Lemon’s campaign can visit her Impact Team page here.

Fundraising is open until Nov. 5 at 9 p.m.