MU blood drive once again surpasses goal
by Abby Grimmet, posted Oct. 18, 2007
From Oct. 9 through Oct. 11, the American Red Cross teamed up with MU for the 22nd annual homecoming blood drive, "Stop in the Name of Blood." The blood drive has been recognized as one of the largest in the country, collecting a total of 3,832 units of blood, surpassing this year's goal of 3,600.
The drive is steeped in tradition and is held in conjunction with various homecoming activities. MU students, faculty and staff, along with members in the community and throughout the country, participated in this year's drive.
Catherine Hicks, director of communications and marketing for the Missouri-Illinois Region of the American Red Cross, said the event was extremely successful.
"This University is able to pull it off because it has a strong belief and emphasis on giving," Hicks said. "I don't think you'll find a blood drive of this caliber anywhere else."
Besides donating, students had the opportunity to volunteer. During the three days, more than 860 MU students registered as volunteers. Students chose which volunteer station they wanted to work at after learning what each duty entailed. Hicks credited not only the student volunteers but also the community for making the drive successful.
Throughout each day, donors arrived and many chose to donate blood and get points for a designated organization.
Madison Burnett, a sophomore atmospheric science major, was at the drive donating for her sorority, Kappa Delta, as well as the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.
"I was nervous earlier, but now I just want to get it over with," Burnett said.
Burnett was a veteran donor. She has given in the past at MU blood drives and in high school.
"It's a great opportunity for MU students to help out the community," she said. "It's amazing to see how many come to help."
Hicks said most of the units collected come directly from MU's drive, but satellite drives are also available for those who wish to contribute to the homecoming blood drive. These drives usually develop in areas where groups of alumni live. This year areas throughout the state included St. Louis, Springfield, Kirksville, Kansas City and St. Joseph as well as Colorado.
"We at the American Red Cross are very appreciative of the students, University and community," Hicks said. "They always come together and support us and this big event."
