Skip to main content
Blog/Heart Health & Local Leadership: CEO Jill Hayes Honored by American Heart Association

Heart Health & Local Leadership: CEO Jill Hayes Honored by American Heart Association

August 7, 2026 New York Sash

Limited Time — Spring Home Improvement Offers

Windows, bathrooms, siding & doors. Serving Central New York since 1987.

765958481_2286289995467696_6280681945906957815_n

At New York Sash, our commitment to Central New York goes far beyond manufacturing and installing premium windows, doors, and bath systems. It is rooted in a deep passion for supporting the health, strength, and well-being of our local community.

We are thrilled to share that our CEO, Jill Hayes, was recently named the second-ever recipient of The Joanne Donaruma Wade Award!

Sponsored by Mohawk Valley Living Magazine, this prestigious honor recognizes a community leader who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the American Heart Association’s mission of improving heart and brain health for women across the Mohawk Valley.

While Jill was unable to attend this year’s annual Go Red for Women Luncheon, she was presented with the award last week in recognition of her years of active leadership and support.

The Legacy Behind the Joanne Donaruma Wade Award

The JDW Award was established to honor the inspiring legacy of Joanne Donaruma Wade—an American Heart Association board member, longtime volunteer, former Go Red Chair, and passionate advocate for women's cardiovascular health.

Joanne regularly hosts local women's survivor meetings, providing a supportive space for women to navigate challenges and celebrate their health victories together. Her tireless volunteer spirit established the benchmark for community leadership in our region.

To receive an award named in Joanne's honor is a profound testament to Jill’s ongoing dedication to the women and families of Central New York.

Championing Heart Health in the Mohawk Valley

Jill’s support for the American Heart Association and the Go Red for Women movement spans many years. Under her leadership, New York Sash has been a proud, long-standing event sponsor, utilizing our platform to raise vital awareness throughout the region.

Through both New York Sash and our weekly television show, CNY Open House, Jill consistently leverages local media to highlight the annual Go Red for Women Luncheon and amplify the American Heart Association’s lifesaving message.

The Survivor Table: Custom Red Sneakers for Local Heroes!

One of the most meaningful traditions Jill and New York Sash support each year is the Go Red Survivor Table. At this year's luncheon, New York Sash sponsored 10 local heart and stroke survivors, allowing them to attend the event at no cost and be celebrated for their strength and resilience.

As a special personal gift from Jill and the New York Sash team, each survivor received a pair of custom red sneakers, tailored specifically to their size, to symbolize their ongoing journey toward health, movement, and empowerment.

Dedicated to Our Community Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States, but through education, advocacy, and community support, lives are being saved right here in the Mohawk Valley.

We could not be prouder of Jill for receiving the Joanne Donaruma Wade Award, and we extend our sincere gratitude to Mohawk Valley Living Magazine and the American Heart Association for this incredible honor. Join us in congratulating Jill on this well-deserved recognition!

Ready to Start Your Project?

Get a free consultation from Central New York's trusted home improvement experts.

New York Sash $25,000 Home Improvement Giveaway at the Home Show — Utica University Nexus Center