An Achievable Dream Middle & High School designated Heart Safe School
Posted: March 6, 2026
The Virginia Project ADAM program, which is led by the Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, officially designated An Achievable Dream Middle & High School a Virginia Project ADAM Heart Safe School.
Project ADAM status is granted to a school that meets the established criteria to show its preparedness for responding to a sudden cardiac arrest on school grounds.
"We are especially honored to be the first school in Newport News to receive this distinction, reflecting our deep commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all students, staff and visitors," said An Achievable Dream Principal Debbie Hudgins.
"This accomplishment represents the collective effort of our entire staff, all of whom completed training to support this lifesaving initiative."
VCU Health Systems officials presented An Achievable Dream with its official Heart Safe School banner and recognized members of the school's Project ADAM Response Team at a ceremony on March 3.
Project ADAM--Automated Defibrillation in Adam's Memory - is a national non-profit committed to saving lives through advocacy, education, preparedness and collaboration, according to the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU website. It was developed in 1999 in memory of high school student Adam Lemel, who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and died while playing basketball in Wisconsin.
In partnership with health care affiliates throughout the nation, Project ADAM helps schools and communities ensure that they're prepared to care for students, faculty, staff and visitors who may experience a sudden cardiac arrest.
