Eastern Illinois University Athletic Director Tom Micheal is the featured speaker at Sarah Bush Lincoln’s men’s only free event, “Take Down Heart Disease,” set for 6 to 8 pm, Thursday, Feb. 21, in at the Brick House Bar and Grill in Charleston.
Take Down Heart Disease will give attendees the opportunity to learn about the importance of physical fitness and staying active to help prevent heart disease. A variety of Sarah Bush Lincoln health professionals will be on hand to answer questions about fitness, tobacco cessation, weight management, sleep disorders and diabetes.
At the event, Michael will share some of his experiences on the court, upcoming EIU athletic news and the benefits of leading an active life.
Michael came to EIU after serving as the Senior Associate Athletic Director at the University of Illinois since 2012. One of his final projects was overseeing the renovations to the State Farm Center.
Michael joined the Illinois athletic department in 1996 as an academic counselor. He worked for 12 years in administration serving as both an associate athletic director and assistant athletic director for student services. In addition to his role in the State Farm Center renovation Michael oversaw Academic Services, Equipment, Event Management, Sports Medicine and Strength and Conditioning for the athletic department.
Michael received both his bachelor’s degree (1993) and master’s degree (1994) from Illinois. He played four years for the Fighting Illini basketball program from 1991-94 helping the team make two trips to the NCAA Tournament. He was a two-time Academic All-Big Ten Selection and holds the Illinois single season record for 3-point field goal percentage.
Event Coordinator Chris Kessler said, “We know that many times women are the drivers in healthcare and there are many programs offered throughout the year geared toward women and women’s health. We wanted to offer a program for men only, with male presenters in an environment that would be conducive to asking questions and learning about their own health.”
Attendees will receive two drink tickets and appetizers will be served. Names will also be entered into a drawing for a Yeti cooler. While the event is free and open to men 21 and older, attendees must reserve a seat by Feb. 18 by calling 217 258-2420 or emailing jtruesdale@sblhs.org.
For more information about Take Down Heart Disease, call 217 821-0426, or email ckessler@sblhs.org.