In Memoriam
Over the years, Heart to Heart has had the privilege of working with many extraordinary people—volunteers and supporters who have given Heart to Heart their time, expertise, and passion for our mission. We stand on their shoulders.
Three of them—founders Stan Higashino, MD, and Jo Ann McGowan, and philanthropist Nika Thayer—passed away in the early years of Heart to Heart. Their vision and wisdom helped shape what our organization has become. They will always be with us in spirit.
In addition, there are many other members of the Heart to Heart family who have left a lasting mark in our story. Read about them below.
STAN HIGASHINO, MD
Founder
Pediatric Cardiologist,
Children’s Hospital of Oakland
NIKA PLESHKOVA THAYER*
Philanthropist
JO ANN MCGOWAN
Founder
STEVE HOLLAND
Board Chair Emeritus
Fidelity Insurance
LISA POPPELL, RN
Volunteer
*fluent speaker of Russian
† fluent speaker of Spanish
ROSE GLICKMAN, PhD *†
Editor, interviewer, interpreter

