First Horizon Foundation is supporting the American Heart Association’s efforts to introduce young women to opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through a 2026 grant for STEM Goes Red.

The American Heart Association is among the Knoxville-area recipients of First Horizon Foundation funding in 2026, with its grant designated for the STEM Goes Red program.

STEM Goes Red is part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women initiative and is designed to encourage young women to explore education and careers in STEM fields.

The program connects students with professionals working in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health-related careers. Participants have opportunities for hands-on learning, interaction with mentors and exposure to careers they might not otherwise encounter.

For the American Heart Association, encouraging more young women to pursue STEM careers also connects directly to its health mission. Scientists, physicians, researchers, engineers and technology professionals all play roles in developing new approaches to preventing, diagnosing and treating cardiovascular disease.

The association launched STEM Goes Red in 2017, and the Knoxville office held its inaugural STEM Goes Red event in 2025. Dozens of middle school girls from Holston Middle School spent the day at Pellissippi State Community College with the American Heart Association, First Horizon, and other STEM leaders. They learned the science behind what builds healthy foods, the technology of CPR training on manikins, 3D printing related to engineering, and how to manage a budget in the mathematics section sponsored by First Horizon. The girls then got one-on-one time with women working in STEM careers to learn how they can follow similar paths.

“Watching the girls realize that building a budget isn’t just math, it’s about creating a vision for their future, was inspiring,” said Brooke Lawson, Senior Vice President, Private Client Relationship Manager at First Horizon Bank, who facilitated the STEM Boss Girls: Building Budgets, Building Dreams session. “By connecting STEM skills to real-world goals and dreams, we empower young women to take charge of their ambitions, and that’s what STEM Goes Red is all about.”

“Our goal with STEM Goes Red is to open doors for young women and connect them with mentors, experiences, and career paths they may not otherwise encounter. We are grateful for First Horizon’s investment in this work, which helps us inspire students today while building a stronger future for our community,” shared Kayla Smith, Executive Director, Knoxville American Heart Association.

The program is one of several youth initiatives offered by the American Heart Association. Others include Kids Heart Challenge, American Heart Challenge, CPR in Schools and educational programs addressing nutrition, physical activity and cardiovascular health.

The 2026 First Horizon Foundation grant provides additional support for the association’s STEM Goes Red work and fits within the foundation’s emphasis on education and leadership. The 2026 STEM Goes Red event is scheduled for November, where dozens more girls will get this immersive opportunity to learn about these fields.

Looking ahead to 2027 First Horizon grants

Knoxville-area nonprofit organizations interested in First Horizon Foundation funding can review eligibility requirements and application information through the foundation’s Knoxville-area grant program. The foundation considers requests in five primary areas: arts and culture, education and leadership, environment, financial literacy, and health and human services.

The 2027 Knoxville application dates have not yet been posted. Organizations considering applying should monitor First Horizon Foundation’s Tennessee grant page for the opening date and application deadline when the next cycle is announced.

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