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Tom Nickels, AHA executive vice president for government relations and public policy, will retire from the association next April after a long and exceptional career in the association and political world,  today. 

“During his time with us, Tom helped make the association regularly recognized as one of the most effective advocacy organizations in Washington, D.C.,” said AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack. “Through his work, Tom has put his stamp on many of the most important health policy issues in the past quarter century. He is a brilliant strategist and a fierce advocate for our members.”  

Joining the AHA as its next executive vice president-designate is Stacey Hughes, president and founding partner of The Nickles Group, a Washington, D.C.-based political consulting firm. Hughes currently works as an outside political consultant for the association. She will join the AHA in January and overlap with Nickels to ensure a smooth transition. 

“Having worked very closely with Stacey for years, I’m pleased to have her join the AHA team,” Pollack said. “Stacey has strong bipartisan respect that spans all corners of health care – members of Congress and staff, key regulatory departments within the Executive branch, as well as the private sector. She knows health policy inside-out and has an ability to tackle complex challenges strategically and creatively. Under her leadership I’m confident that AHA won’t miss a beat.”