Northbrook, IL - September 1, 2026 - The Children’s Heart Foundation is proud to announce Cristina Velasquez and Mariana Casa de Vito, both of the University of Colorado Denver, as the 2026 recipients of the Scholarship for Researchers Committed to Advancing Congenital Heart Defect Research in Underrepresented Communities.

Through this scholarship, The Children’s Heart Foundation provides financial support to early-career scholars who are dedicated to conducting research on CHDs and improving the health outcomes of underrepresented and disadvantaged populations.

Casa de Vito is investigating how targeting mitochondrial dysfunction could lead to more accessible treatments for children with complex CHDs. The scholarship will provide critical support for her training and research as she works toward a career developing equitable, pediatric-specific therapies, particularly those who may have limited access to advanced heart failure care.

Velasquez’s work investigates how immune and metabolic dysfunction contribute to heart failure in children with complex CHDs. This scholarship will help advance her scientific training and prepare her for a career developing more effective, equitable therapies for children with CHDs.

By supporting researchers like Velasquez and Casa de Vito early in their careers, The Children’s Heart Foundation aims to help cultivate the next generation of scientists and clinicians bringing new perspectives, experiences, and ideas to CHD research.

“We are proud to support Cristina and Mariana as they pursue research that has the potential to improve the lives of children and families impacted by CHDs,” said Terry Morrow, President and CEO of The Children’s Heart Foundation. “Investing in emerging researchers and fostering a CHD research community that reflects the diverse populations it serves are important parts of building a stronger future for the field.”

The scholarship was established to help address disparities in research and care while creating opportunities for researchers committed to improving outcomes in historically underrepresented communities. 

As The Children’s Heart Foundation celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, supporting the development of promising researchers remains an important part of its commitment to advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects.