Step Up for Heart Health: LSC–University Park celebrates 10 years as host of Heart Walk

HOUSTON, TX -- Celebrating its tenth year at Lone Star College–University Park, the American Heart Association’s Northwest Harris County Heart Walk returns on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. The community is invited to lace up their walking shoes, join the fun, and contribute to a $300,000 fundraising goal to fight heart disease and stroke.

More than 1,000 walkers are anticipated for a festive Fall Fest–themed morning filled with heart-healthy fun and family activities.

“As a campus committed to promoting wellness and community involvement, and as someone with a family member who has suffered cardiac arrest, we are honored to host the Heart Walk again,” said Matthew Dempsey, MS, Ed.D., president of LSC–University Park. “This event engages the community in a meaningful way while supporting an essential cause that impacts so many lives. Our team takes great pride in being part of this effort to improve heart health awareness.”

Event Highlights

• Heart Walk Expo (8 a.m.) – Family-friendly fun including a kid & pup costume contest, pumpkin patch photo booth, face painting, inflatables, a Kids’ Zone, and health vendor booths.
  
• Ceremonial Moments – Cypress Creek High School Air Force JROTC will present the Color Guard, and LSC–University Park employee Jacelle Ortiz will perform the National Anthem.
  
• Heart Walk (9 a.m.) – Walk begins at the LSC Energy & Manufacturing Institute parking lot, 11521 Compaq Center Drive, Houston, TX 77070.

The walk will take place rain or shine. Parking is free in Garage 9 (Compaq Center Way) and Garage 10 (Noble Energy Way).

Why It Matters
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., taking a life every 34 seconds. Community support fuels breakthroughs—since 1949, donations have enabled the American Heart Association to invest $6.1 billion in research, fund more than 47,000 projects, and train 22 million people annually in CPR, doubling survival rates from cardiac arrest. By joining or donating to the Heart Walk, participants help advance lifesaving research and education that improve health outcomes for families everywhere.

For more information or to donate, visit www.lonestar.edu/up-heartwalk.