Bussey joins national effort to advance CPR awareness, heart health education and lifesaving fundraising
August 26, 2026 - The American Heart Association today announced that Terry Bussey, a junior wide receiver at Texas A&M University, has been selected to participate in the 2026-27 Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards Players of Impact campaign, an initiative that brings together college football student-athletes committed to creating healthier communities and saving lives.
Developed through the American Heart Association's prestigious Paul "Bear" Bryant Awards program, the Players of Impact campaign challenges athletes across the country to lead meaningful community engagement efforts throughout the college football season while raising awareness and funds to fight heart disease and stroke.
As a member of the Players of Impact class, Bussey will spend the upcoming college football season raising awareness about heart health, promoting CPR education and supporting fundraising efforts that advance the mission of the American Heart Association.
The Bear Bryant Awards Players of Impact campaign empowers college football athletes to leverage their visibility and leadership beyond the playing field. Through outreach, education and advocacy efforts, participants help increase community awareness around cardiovascular health and the importance of bystander CPR.
“Terry Bussey exemplifies the leadership and commitment to community that define the Players of Impact program,” said Steven Embree, Executive Director of the American Heart Association Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards. “By using this platform to promote heart health and CPR awareness, Terry has the opportunity to make a real difference throughout College Station and beyond.”
As part of the campaign, Bussey may participate in activities such as:
- Promoting CPR awareness through social media and community outreach
- Supporting local schools and Kids Heart Challenge events
- Advocating for heart health education
- Engaging fans and supporters in fundraising efforts for the American Heart Association
- Participating in local volunteer opportunities and awareness initiatives
“Football has given me a great platform, and it's a privilege to use it to make a difference beyond the game,” said Bussey. “Being a part of Players of Impact is a chance for me to help in a real way, and I'm excited to be part of it.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, making public awareness, prevention efforts and CPR education more important than ever. Through Players of Impact, participating athletes are helping equip more people with knowledge and skills that can save lives.
Throughout the season, the American Heart Association will recognize and celebrate the impact generated by participants nationwide. Top-performing athletes will be recognized at the 2027 Bear Bryant Awards in Houston.
Supporters can learn more about Reese’s campaign and contribute at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/IMPACTPLAYERS/TerryBussey.
About the Bryant Awards Players of Impact Campaign
The Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards Players of Impact campaign is an American Heart Association initiative that engages college football student-athletes in community leadership, CPR awareness, heart health advocacy and fundraising. The program recognizes athletes who create meaningful impact on and off the field while advancing the American Heart Association's mission to improve health and save lives.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
