Skip to content

June 5 Event to Feature Powerful Conversation on Leadership, Survival, and Lifesaving Purpose

LANSING, Mich. — The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a powerful panel discussion at the June Lansing Economic Club featuring former MSU Assistant Coach and Champions of the Heart founder Michael Garland and Michigan State University Men’s Basketball Head Coach Tom Izzo. The event takes place on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center and will be moderated by Ann Emmerich, Anchor at WILX News 10.

This can’t-miss conversation will explore themes of leadership, adversity, and purpose. Garland will share his life-altering experience of surviving cardiac arrest in 2022, thanks to two brave passersby who administered CPR and helped save his life. The moment inspired him to launch Champions of the Heart, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding hands-only CPR training, access to CPR manikins, and AEDs throughout communities.

Coach Tom Izzo will join the discussion to reflect on Garland’s journey, their shared legacy at MSU, and the principles behind the Spartan training philosophy—a discipline explored in Garland’s new book, AGOGE. Together, the coaches will offer insights on high performance, resilience, and what it truly means to lead with heart.

“This panel embodies what the Lansing Economic Club is all about—bringing people together to share stories that motivate and spark impact,” said Tim Daman, President & CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “We’re honored to host Champions of the Heart Founder Mike Garland and MSU Men’s Basketball Coach Tom Izzo for what promises to be an emotional and unforgettable program.”

I wouldn’t be here today without two people who knew CPR,” said Coach Michael Garland. “Now it’s my mission to make sure every community is equipped to save lives. This conversation is a chance to spread that message and celebrate the power of preparation and purpose.”

Mike Garland is not just a survivor—he’s a servant leader,” said Coach Tom Izzo. “What he’s doing with Champions of the Heart is bigger than basketball. I’m proud to sit beside him and help amplify this life-saving message.”

Event Details:
• Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
• Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• Location: Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, East Lansing, MI
• Registration: lansingchamber.org

About Champions of the Heart
Champions of the Heart was founded by Coach Michael Garland to empower individuals and
communities through hands-only CPR training, CPR manikins, and AED access. Visit
thechampionsoftheheart.org for more.

About the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
For 124 years, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce has worked relentlessly to help
businesses connect, grow, and thrive. Learn more at lansingchamber.org and follow us on
Facebook, Instagram (@lansingregionalchamber), Twitter (@lansingchamber), and LinkedIn.