April Dawn Shinske

April Dawn Shinske is Chief Communications & Marketing Officer at The Marfan Foundation. Since joining the Foundation in 2023, she has led its brand strategy, mission-driven storytelling, digital engagement, and communications innovation for a global community affected by genetic aortic and vascular conditions.

With more than two decades of experience in nonprofit health communications, April Dawn spent much of her career at the American Heart Association, where she built the Northeast Region’s internal and executive communications programs before ultimately serving as National Director of Donor Experience. In that role, she led national change management and internal communications and served as lead writer for flagship fundraising campaigns.

At The Marfan Foundation, April Dawn has led award-winning work recognized by Ragan Communications and PR Daily, including honors for nonprofit social media and re-engagement, as well as recognition for communications innovation. Her team’s work has also been named a finalist for print publication honors, and The Marfan Foundation has been recognized among Ragan’s Top Places to Work in Communications.

April Dawn holds an M.A. in Integrated Marketing Communications from Marist University, an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School, and a B.A. in English from Vassar College. She is passionate about using bold, human-centered communications and emerging technology to build community, deepen engagement, and turn complex health information into meaningful action.