A Day Dedicated to Lifesaving Skills

At the heart of the initiative was the American Heart Association (AHA) Heartsaver CPR AED certification course, delivered by certified AHA instructors from key community partners including PNG, Inc. dba Life Support Training, Health Services of the Pacific, Guam Department of Education, G4S, and Guam Memorial Hospital Authority. Their collective expertise ensured that every participant received high‑quality, evidence‑based instruction aligned with AHA standards.

Participants engaged in hands-on practice using real-time feedback manikins, which allowed them to refine chest compression depth, rate, and recoil—critical components of effective CPR. They also trained with automated external defibrillator (AED) simulators, learning how to recognize cardiac arrest, apply AED pads correctly, and follow device prompts with confidence.

By the end of the event, all 100 participants successfully completed the AHA Heartsaver CPR AED course and earned a two‑year certification. For many, it was their first time performing CPR or using an AED; for others, it was a meaningful refresher that strengthened their readiness to act in an emergency.

Why CPR/AED Training Matters for Guam

Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere—at home, in schools, at work, or in public spaces. Immediate CPR and early defibrillation can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. On an island where response times can vary by location, empowering everyday residents with these skills becomes even more essential.

The Heartbeat Initiative reflects the School of Health’s commitment to building a community where lifesaving knowledge is accessible, practical, and culturally grounded. Every newly certified participant represents another link in Guam’s growing chain of survival.

Community Partnerships at the Core

The success of the event was made possible through the collaboration and generosity of numerous partners. The MPHUSOH extends heartfelt appreciation to: 

• UOG Executive Administration, department leaderships, faculty and staff
• UOG Calvo Fieldhouse
• Global Learning & Engagement
• Guam Regional Medical City
• Jamz Media
• AHA instructors from partner organizations
• UOG student organizations: Student Government Association (SGA), Student Nurses Association of Guam (SNAG), Health Science Student Organization (HSSO), and Social Work Student Alliance (SWSA)

Their support ensured a seamless, engaging, and impactful training experience for all participants.
Events like the Heartbeat Initiative demonstrate the power of partnership—uniting students, faculty, healthcare professionals, and community members in a shared mission to protect and uplift Guam. The School of Health expresses deep gratitude to all volunteers, campus partners, and supporters who contributed to the event’s success.

This training marks only the beginning. The Heartbeat Initiative aims to expand islandwide CPR/AED readiness, increase access to certification opportunities, and strengthen Guam’s emergency response network for years to come. For more information about the Heartbeat Initiative or interest in supporting this initiative, please contact Ms. Jennifer Salas at macaraegj@triton.uog.edu, Ms. Maria Sandra Cruz at mariacruz@triton.uog.edu, or contact the UOG Margaret P. Hattori-Uchima School of Health Office at 671-735-2650.