EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University is gearing up for another year of healthy heart activities. Thirteen EMU teams and more than 750 community members will convene at Rynearson Stadium at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 14 for the 2022 Washtenaw County Heart Walk and 5K. 

Each year, dozens of students and community members join together to raise funds, celebrate survivors and have fun along the way at the Heart Walk. Participation and support from Eastern and the Ypsilanti community help to fund research that can help save lives. This year’s fundraising goal for the EMU community is set for $20,000 with an overall event goal of $305,000. The funds raised from the Heart Walk will go towards heart disease and stroke research, advocacy for healthier communities, improving patient care and work for equitable health for all people.

“Most people are associated with someone who lives with a form of heart disease - it is unfortunately just that common,” said Tyler Calhoun, communications and operations coordinator of Engage@EMU. “Participating in the Heart Walk is a great way to show support for the people in your lives impacted by heart disease because the AHA uses donations to fund life-saving research.”

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally. Even when those conditions don’t result in death, they cause disability and diminish the quality of life. The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. A shared focus on cardiovascular health unites our more than 40 million volunteers and supporters as well as our more than 2,800 employees.

“Throughout the year we work to raise money and bring awareness around the number 1 killer of both men and women,” said Sarah Spitzley, director of Heart Challenge at the American Heart Association. “The Washtenaw County Heart Walk is a place for our community to come together and honor or remember their loved ones who have fought a battle with heart disease or stroke, as well as celebrate the work that has been done to advance research and promote education around heart disease and stroke.”

President Smith is on the Executive Leadership Team for the 2022 Washtenaw County Heart Walk. To donate or to register, visit the 2022 Washtenaw County Heart Walk website.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 15,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and, its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.