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Erin Gabert
Sr. Director of Community Impact at American Heart Association - American Stroke Association
Professional Background
Erin Gabert is a dedicated community health and policy professional who has devoted her career to improving health outcomes for individuals and communities in the Kansas City area. With a passion for health equity, Erin focuses on addressing the social determinants of health and enacting policy, systems, and environmental changes that support the health and well-being of Kansas City’s most at-risk populations. Her extensive experience in building partnerships across the metro area allows her to address systemic issues that hinder the health of these communities, making her a pivotal figure in the local public health landscape.
Before transitioning into the field of community health, Erin enjoyed a successful 14-year career in marketing and communications. Her dynamic background includes senior-level positions in well-established organizations and impactful projects. Erin has honed her expertise working with prominent entities such as the Walt Disney World Company, the American Heart Association, and various advertising agencies, which provided her with a robust foundation in engaging diverse audiences effectively. Her previous roles have shaped her strategic outlook and equipped her with the skills necessary to infuse effective communication into community health initiatives.
In her current role as the Senior Director of Community Impact at the American Heart Association, Erin leads efforts that aim to change policies and systems to promote healthier communities. Her work focuses on fostering collaborations with a multitude of stakeholders including governmental bodies, non-profits, and business leaders to create an integrated approach to health equity.
Education and Achievements
Erin is a proud alumna of Missouri State University, where she cultivated her knowledge and skills that would later support her in both marketing and public health domains. While her degree is invaluable, Erin attributes much of her professional development to real-world experiences gained through various roles in marketing, promotions, and community advocacy. This blend of education and experience has empowered her to approach challenges with both creativity and pragmatism—a combination that has proven beneficial in her diverse career.
In addition to her impressive professional experience, Erin actively contributes to her community through service on several notable boards. She serves on the board of directors for NurtureKC, an organization dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of mothers and babies, as well as the Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade and the Kansas City Irish Festival. These engagements highlight her commitment to celebrating cultural heritage while also addressing critical health issues in the community.
Achievements
Erin’s ability to adapt and thrive in different fields speaks volumes about her versatility and determination. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated her capacity as a mentor and leader, consistently helping teams achieve their collective goals on large projects and initiatives. Known for her strategic mindset, Erin excels at swiftly assessing situations to determine the best path forward, effectively saving time and resources for the teams she collaborates with.
Her extensive background allows her to blend creativity with analytical thinking—an essential skill in both marketing and community health. As Erin continues to take strides towards eliminating health disparities in Kansas City, her ongoing leadership roles and board positions significantly contribute to the betterment of the community. Through collaboration, advocacy, and education, Erin Gabert not only enhances her professional horizons but also leaves a lasting impact on the health and wellness of Kansas City residents.
