UTICA, N.Y., Nov. 12, 2025 — Supporters of America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk joined Munson and Pratt Munson College of Art and Design students, faculty and leaders today at Munson’s Root Court in downtown Utica for a special “reveal” event. For over 15 years, students in Leah McDonald’s communications design class have developed a new graphic for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. The Run & Walk supports the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all.
Today, Pratt Munson student Charles Smythe Sheffield, from North Carolina, and Kristen Bourgeois, vice president of retail banking at Adirondack Bank and corporate chair of America’s Greatest
Heart Run & Walk 2026, unveiled Smythe Sheffield’s 2026 design that will appear throughout the campaign for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. That event includes a Health Expo, Radiothon and Treadmill Challenge on March 6, and a 3-mile walk and run on March 7. Events on both days take place at Utica University.
“There are many unique aspects of America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk and having a particular design from a Pratt Munson student each year is one of the most special parts,” Bourgeois said. “Charles’ design is very creative. This tradition with Pratt Munson really showcases how all of the community gets involved with this unique event.”
“Our students put so much heart into their work, and this challenge allows them to see the impact of their creativity in our community,” said Suzanne Snyder, dean of Pratt Munson College of Art and Design. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for learning, growth, and meaningful connection. We’re grateful to be part of this tradition.”
Working with the American Heart Association on this design is important to Smythe Sheffield because of a family history of heart disease. “I had a lot of ideas to start with, but the one that was most clear to me was, when you finish a marathon and get a medal,” he said. “I thought of the feeling of accomplishment that comes with finishing a run or a walk, the weight of the medallion in your hand and how the words that are etched into it imprint on your mind.”
The 2026 design will be featured on collateral promoting America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk, as well as two specialty items that participants in the Run & Walk can receive. Every participant who raises $35 or more will receive a finisher’s pin with the design. Participants who raise $250 or more will receive a hat with this year’s design.
To register for America’s Greatest Heart Run& Walk, and learn how to receive one of the items, visit UticaHeartRunWalk.org.
About America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk
America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk is set for Saturday, March 7 at Utica University. The Healthy for Good Expo, the WIBX Heart Radiothon and the Treadmill Challenge will take place on Friday, March 6, at the Clark Athletic Center at Utica University. Kristen Bourgeois of Adirondack Bank is the corporate chair; Karen Murphy of Leatherstocking BSA is the logistics chair; Morgan Mielnicki of Sentinel Media is the Radiothon and Treadmill Challenge chair. Sponsors include Adirondack Bank, NYCM, MVHS, GPO Federal Credit Union, Slocum Dickson Medical Group, WKTV, WIBX, Sentinel Media and New York Sash. For information, visit UticaHeartRunWalk.org or contact Marie.Masca@heart.org.
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.
About Pratt Munson College of Art and Design
Pratt Munson College of Art and Design is a division of Munson and the upstate New York extension campus of Pratt Institute, located in Utica, N.Y. Through its long-standing partnership with Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, Pratt Munson offers students an intimate and supportive environment to complete the first two years of their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree before transitioning to Pratt’s Brooklyn campus to finish their studies. Since the program’s inception, more than 2,000 students have begun their world-class art and design education at Pratt Munson, gaining the foundational skills and creative community essential to thriving in the arts.
