The Kirkpatrick Family and DESE Research were recognized by the American Heart Association at the 2024 Heart Ball with the “Heart of the Community Award.”

The Kirkpatrick family has a long-standing history of philanthropy and community involvement in the Huntsville, Alabama area. Their contributions have been recognized and celebrated at the 2024 Heart Ball where they were honored as recipients of The Heart of the Community award.

Wally Kirkpatrick, the patriarch of the family, was a prominent figure in the community and contributed to various organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, the United Way of America, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He was also responsible for the development of Huntsville's marina and port, Ditto Landing, on the Tennessee River. Wally's philanthropic efforts were recognized and appreciated by many, and his sons, Steve and Michael, are now carrying on his legacy.

Steve Kirkpatrick has been actively involved in community service since the late 1990s, contributing to organizations such as the American Heart Association, AIDS Action Coalition, and Huntsville Wild Game Cookout Committee. He has also served as a member of the board of directors for the United Way of Alabama and the United Way of Madison County. Steve’s dedication to community service has earned him several awards including the DESE Research Inc. Community Service Award for Exceptional Service to the Community.

Michael Kirkpatrick also has a strong commitment to community involvement and has served as the 2020 chairman as well as dedicated more than five years on the Executive Leadership Team for the Huntsville Alabama Heart Association, The Nature Conservancy of Alabama, and Leadership Alabama. He is also an ambassador for Hudson Alpha and was the Chairman of the City of Guntersville Airport Advisory Board. Michael's leadership and dedication to community service have earned several accolades and recognition.

The Kirkpatrick family's philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted the Huntsville community, and their contributions are truly deserving of The Heart of the Community award.