Venture capital investor leads year-round campaign to improve health in St. Louis

Bill Schmidt named 2025-2026 American Heart Association Heart of St. Louis chair

ST. LOUIS, November 14, 2025 — Through the American Heart Association’s Heart of St. Louis campaign, Bill Schmidt, volunteer chair and investor will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in St. Louis has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. Heart of St. Louis engages companies, community leaders and individuals to make a lasting impact across the Four Chambers of the American Heart Association’s work: discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge.  

The campaign will come together at the St. Louis Heart Ball, celebrating hope and progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere. Schmidt is passionate about the Heart Association’s mission because of family connection.

“Heart health isn’t just a cause for me—it’s my story,” said Schmidt.  My dad battled coronary artery disease, my mom managed arrhythmias, and I’ve faced supraventricular tachycardia myself. In 2015, on a family trip to Paris, I had a serious cardiac event that changed everything. That moment led to a successful cardiac ablation the following year. Today, even in my work as a venture capitalist, I’m all in on cardiovascular innovation—because this fight is personal.”

Bill Schmidt leads Cultivation Capital’s healthcare and life sciences strategy, bringing over thirty years of experience in the medical device and healthcare information technology sectors.

“Bill brings exceptional vision and energy as a respected businessman. His commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, combined with a clear passion for improving the well-being of our community, makes him an outstanding choice to lead this year’s campaign,” Jennifer Jaeger, executive director of American Heart Association – St. Louis. “We welcome Bill as chair of the Heart of St. Louis campaign, which unites leaders across our community to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.”

 

The 2026 St. Louis Heart Ball is sponsored by Worldwide Technology and will be held on Friday, February 6, 6 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton St. Louis. The annual event is a night to celebrate the Heart Association’s year-round efforts to build a healthier St. Louis. Throughout the evening, the Heart Association will honor volunteers and patrons, share survivor stories and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an auction. For more information on how to support or attend the St. Louis Heart Ball, visit heart.org/heartofstlouis or contact [email protected].

###

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:

Madelyn Alexander; [email protected]

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org