About Us —
OUR PURPOSE

The Black Heart Association (BHA) is a nonprofit organization focused on the overall improvement of health outcomes in communities of color. Our mission is to eliminate heart health disparities in black and brown communities through advocacy, education, and empowerment.

We promote healthy hearts by advocating for people of color. Through advocacy, we help individuals understand the causes, effects, and symptoms of heart disease and take action to help prevent heart disease in those who are considered more at risk.

In 2019, Tara lost her brother to a heart attack. He left behind 3 children. It was this loss that inspired Tara and Fred to educate others on the devastating effect such a loss can have on families.
Heart 2 Heart Logo for Black Heart Association's memorial page that honors those who have passed away from heart disease.

On March 9, 2019, Stephen Jordan, Sr. (Tara’s brother) passed away after suffering a hypertensive heart attack in the presence of his two youngest children. At the time, his oldest was preparing to graduate college, his middle child was entering her senior year of high school, and his youngest was starting his freshman year. This unexpected loss deeply impacted their entire family ecosystem. Stephen's story drives our passion for educating others about the impact, risks, and importance of protecting against heart disease. We aim to equip everyone with the knowledge to prevent being blindsided by heart disease, as we were.

Visit Our Memorial Page to add your loved one's story and make a difference in someone else's life. Together, we can create a lasting impact and honor the memories of those we hold dear.

our founders

Tara Robinson, CEO & Co-Founder

Tara Robinson co-founded BHA after experiencing 3 heart attacks within one week.

After experiencing three heart attacks within a week, narrowly escaping death on the last occasion, Tara Robinson realized she was in a life-or-death struggle. Recognizing that the black community was also silently battling heart disease, she resolved to take action. Together with her husband, Frederick, Tara founded the Black Heart Association (BHA) from their own survival story, dedicated to advocating for thousands of minority individuals who face the devastating impact of heart disease and stroke each year.

Tara believes that as a survivor, she is uniquely positioned to engage and empower the black community in the fight against heart disease and stroke. Serving as CEO and Founder, she strives to lead an organization that bridges the gap between the black community and heart health awareness.  Mrs. Robinson holds a master’s in Counseling Psychology from Lamar University.

Frederick Robinson, Co-founder & Director of Operations

Fredrick Robinson, Co-founder of Black Heart Association

Frederick Robinson serves as Co-founder and Director of Operations at the Black Heart Association, dedicating his efforts to enhancing outreach and community engagement. With over a decade of experience in public service, Frederick has always had a deep passion and commitment to service.

After witnessing his wife Tara endure three heart attacks, Frederick and Tara united in a mission to eliminate heart health disparities in communities of color. Mr. Robinson holds a master’s in public relations and a bachelor's in communications from Southern University and A&M College.

Meet the BOARD

  • Jemel Jones, Sr., COO at Phoenix American Hospitality, serves as the BHA Board Chair.

    JEMEL JONES, SR.

    CHAIR

    Jemel Jones, Sr. is an executive with over 35 years in hotel operations and real estate, focusing on profitability and strategic growth. He holds degrees from Southern University, Troy State University, and the University of New Orleans. Currently, as COO and President of Operations at Phoenix American Hospitality, LLC, Jones leverages his extensive expertise to enhance operational excellence and maximize returns for investors in the hospitality sector.

  • Andrea Tubbs serves as a BHA Board Member focused on advocating for heart health access in Black communities.

    ANDREA TUBBS

    MEMBER

    Andrea Tubbs, a Black Heart Association board member, brings 20 years of business and federal contracting expertise. Driven by her husband’s heart-related passing, she is dedicated to heart health advocacy in underserved Black communities. Andrea’s three advanced degrees strengthen her role in advancing healthcare initiatives. A mother of five, she enjoys travel, culinary exploration, and reading, making her a passionate advocate for heart health awareness.

  • Ashley Hickson, whose research focuses on health equity, serves as a BHA Board Member.

    ASHLEY HICKSON

    MEMBER

    Ashley Hickson is a public health practitioner and researcher focused on racial justice, health equity, and reducing disparities through community-driven interventions. With over a decade of experience, she serves as Senior Health Equity Advisor at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, building capacity for health equity and developing strategies with community and academic partners. Ashley holds a DrPH in Health Equity and Social Justice from Johns Hopkins and contributes to national health equity projects.

  • Janet Hicks, RN, serves as a BHA Board Member. Her dedication to BHA is seen in her focus on culturally competent healthcare.

    JANET HICKS

    MEMBER

    Janet Hicks, a Professional Registered Nurse at Texas Health Resources and JPS Health Network, also serves as adjunct faculty for Tarrant County College’s Nursing Program. She holds a BSN from UT Arlington and an MSN in Education from Walden University. Active in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the Black Nurses Society, Janet is certified in Pediatric Nursing and Lean Six Sigma. Her focus on patient and nursing education drives her commitment to culturally competent healthcare and quality outcomes.