Mariann Piano, PhD, RN, FAAN, FAHA, Senior Associate Dean for Research at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, received the American Heart Association Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing Distinguished Achievement Award.
“I am honored and humbled by this recognition, and am very grateful to be acknowledged by the Council of Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing and an organization such as the American Heart Association,” said Piano, the Nancy and Hilliard Travis Professor of Nursing.
Presented only every three years, the award recognizes CVSN members who have made substantial professional contributions to the field of cardiovascular and stroke nursing. These include development of new knowledge in the field, contributions to teaching or clinical care in the field, and professional leadership in national or international organizations. It also honors those CVSN members who have made major contributions to the affairs of the council over time.
Piano has a distinguished career in substance abuse research focusing on understanding the adverse effects of unhealthy alcohol drinking patterns on the cardiovascular system. She also researches heart failure pathophysiology, symptoms and patient self-management. She has focused on strategies to prevent frequent hospital admissions in heart failure patients and to identify mechanisms that underlie heart failure symptoms. Her research has been supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the National Center for Research Resources.
“Mariann’s research of the adverse effects of alcohol on the cardiovascular system is illuminating,” said Dean Pamela R. Jeffries, PhD, FAAN, ANEF, FSSH, the Valere Potter Distinguished Professor of Nursing. “Her work is incredibly important, and this award is well-deserved. We are extremely proud of her.”
Piano received her award at the AHA’s 2024 Scientific Sessions, in Chicago, Ill., November 16-18. The conference showcases the latest innovations for scientists, clinicians, researchers and other health care professionals interested in all aspects of cardiovascular disease.