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 whose volunteer work has played an important role in our progress. Read about them below.

STAN HIGASHINO, MD
Founder
Pediatric Cardiologist,
Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN

NIKA PLESHKOVA THAYER*
Philanthropist

ROSE GLICKMAN *†
Editor, interviewer, interpreter
Heart to Heart

JO ANN MCGOWAN
Founder
Heart to Heart

STEVE HOLLAND
Board Member
Fidelity Insurance

LISA POPPELL
Volunteer
Heart to Heart

*fluent speaker of Russian

† fluent speaker of Spanish