Hundreds of students join the Nation of Lifesavers

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y., Nov. 24, 2025 — With nearly 3 out of 4 cardiac arrests outside of the hospital occurring in homes, knowing how to perform CPR is critically important1. CPR, especially if performed immediately, could double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival2.  

That is why the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, along with the Buffalo Bills and the New York State Council on Leadership and Student Activities (NYSCLSA), are adding lifesavers to the chain of survival. 

On Monday, approximately 600 people, including more than 500 high school and middle school students from across the state, learned about the lifesaving skills of Hands-Only CPR at the Niagara Falls Convention Center. The demonstration was part of the three-day NYSCLSA State Leadership Conference. Students learned how to recognize cardiac arrest, how to perform Hands-Only CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). 

“Unfortunately, too many sudden cardiac arrest victims don’t get the help they need,” said Megan Vargulick, executive director of the American Heart Association in Rochester. “Knowing how to respond in a cardiac emergency when seconds matter can be the difference between life and death. Today, we added hundreds of students to the Nation of Lifesavers, so they can respond in those crucial first moments after cardiac arrest.” 

“The Bills remain dedicated to advancing CPR education throughout the Western New York community,” said Michelle Roberts, vice president of community impact of the Buffalo Bills. “Together with the American Heart Association, we are proud to continue offering educational opportunities to empower our community with the lifesaving skills of Hands-Only CPR.” 

“We at the NYSCLSA know how crucial it is for everyone to have CPR skills,” said Kelly Ambrose, assistant executive director of NYSCLSA and chair of the conference. “We hope that giving these skills to student leaders from throughout the state can create a ripple effect in schools and communities and even save lives.” 

Hands-Only CPR has been shown to be as effective in the first few minutes as conventional CPR for cardiac arrest at home, at work or in public3. For more information on Hands-Only CPR, visit cpr.heart.org.