WEST ORANGE, NJ – The American Heart Association’s 2024 New Jersey Heart Ball, held on June 14 at The Legacy Castle in Pompton Plains, was a celebratory event recognizing the significant contributions of three RWJBarnabas Health heart specialists. These physicians were honored for their outstanding achievements in cardiovascular care and their commitment to patient health.
Dr. Anthony Altobelli, III, MD, FACC, Clinical Chief of Cardiology at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital-New Brunswick, received the Physician of the Year Award. Dr. Altobelli is renowned for his innovative treatment of cardiovascular conditions and his leadership roles, including as co-director of the Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Hospital Sports Cardiology Program and cardiology consultant to local university athletic programs.
Marc Klapholz, MD, MBA, FACC, FAHA, was awarded the Researcher of the Year. Dr. Klapholz, Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, has been a cardiology researcher for over two decades, contributing significantly to the field of Congestive Heart Failure through numerous publications and clinical trials.
Dr. Fayez Shamoon, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI, Medical Director of Cardiovascular Services at RWJBarnabas Health, was recognized with the Lifetime Educator Award. Dr. Shamoon has over 30 years of experience in teaching and has been instrumental in educating fellows in cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, the RWJBarnabas Health Heart, Vascular, and Neurosciences service lines were presented with the ADP Community Impact Award. This accolade highlights their efforts in providing charity care, promoting smoking cessation programs, and enhancing public awareness about cardiovascular health.
Dr. Andy Anderson, MD, Executive Vice President, Chief Medical and Quality Officer at RWJBarnabas Health, praised the honorees, stating, “Countless individuals and families live healthier lives because of their efforts. These awards couldn’t go to more deserving individuals who truly keep their patients at the heart of the care they provide.”
This event not only honored individual excellence but also highlighted the collaborative efforts within RWJBarnabas Health to advance cardiovascular care and education.
