The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has announced two community leaders who will guide major campaigns aimed at improving cardiovascular health across the CSRA. Will Schafer, owner of Master Automotive Group, has been named chair of the 2026 CSRA Heart Ball campaign, while Jennifer Baggett, vice president of operations at ADP, will serve as chair of the 2026 CSRA Heart Walk.

CSRA Heart Ball

Through the year-round campaign, Schafer will lead community-wide fundraising and engagement efforts to ensure every person in the region has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. The campaign will culminate at the 2026 CSRA Heart Ball, a celebration of the progress made possible by volunteers, donors and partners dedicated to the American Heart Association’s mission. For Schafer, that mission is deeply personal.

“As the father of a heart disease survivor, I know how vital it is to support this lifesaving work,” said Schafer. “By partnering with our incredible team of volunteer leaders and the American Heart Association, we can drive breakthroughs in science, policy and care, and build a brighter, healthier future for all in the CSRA."

CSRA Heart Walk

Joining Schafer in volunteer leadership is Jennifer Baggett, who will chair the 2026 CSRA Heart Walk and lead efforts to rally the community around CPR education.

According to the American Heart Association, nine in ten people who experience cardiac arrest outside the hospital do not survive—and more than half do not receive bystander CPR. Immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.

“It's an honor to lead our efforts to help build a community of lifesavers in the CSRA,” said Baggett. “Our vision is at least one person in every household feeling confident to perform CPR. By joining Heart Walk, you can help more people be prepared to act in a cardiac emergency."

Through fundraising, community education and corporate engagement, Heart Walk aims to make CPR education and training more accessible, fund vital research and drive equitable health for all. Under Baggett’s leadership, top CSRA executives will work to recruit other organizations to join the local Heart Walk campaign and help build a community of lifesavers.

United leadership for a healthier CSRA

Together, Schafer and Baggett will champion two of the CSRA’s most impactful initiatives—one focused on year-round community health and fundraising, and the other on empowering residents with lifesaving skills.

“Both Jennifer and Will bring exceptional vision and energy to our local campaigns,” said Ansley Howze, American Heart Association CSRA executive director. “Their personal commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, combined with a clear passion for improving the well-being of our community, makes each of them an outstanding choice to lead this work and advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.”

Event Details

CSRA Heart Ball

Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 | Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center

Sponsored by Piedmont Health, Master Automotive and Wellstar MCG Health

Guests will celebrate year-round impact, hear survivor stories and enjoy dinner, dancing and an auction.

Learn more at heart.org/csraheartball or contact Katherine Bonner at [email protected].