Participants in Metro State’s blood drive donated 18 pints of blood—enough to help 54 adults. The blood drive, held on March 20 in New Main Great Hall, was sponsored by Healthcare and Wellness Services, Transforming Health & Empowering Minds (THEM), and the Nursing Student Organization (NSO).

It was the first blood drive on campus since the NSO held one in 2016. “I hope this is something we can continue each year or each semester,” said Jodee Fitzgerald, coordinator of Healthcare and Wellness Services.

Fitzgerald said 25 individuals participated, including walk-ins and those with scheduled appointments. She thinks having a blood drive on campus makes it easier for students, faculty and staff who want to donate. “Not too many businesses can hold a blood drive,” she said. “It’s nice to hold this event for the Dayton’s Bluff community.”

According to the Red Cross,  someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds. More blood donors are needed to meet that need, said Fitzgerald. “It’s an important time right now,” she said of the nationwide blood shortage. Interested donors can learn more at redcross.org.