The American Red Cross is always in need of blood and the Office of Civic and Social Engagement (OCSE) at Saint Mary's College contributed to that need by organizing a blood drive Tuesday.
The drive, which took place from noon to 6 p.m. in the Student Center lounge, gave student the opportunity to give to those in need.
Freshman Ali Buckley donated during the drive and cited the importance of saving lives.
"I think it's important because, first of all it helps a lot of people and it doesn't really take that much from us and just one pint of blood from us could save someone's life potentially," Buckley said.
Junior Jennifer Kornexl helped coordinate the event by signing students up during dinner over the past week. Kornexl said students were more likely to donate if their friends gave blood as well, which allowed more blood to be donated the American Red Cross.
"I think it's something that students do if their friends are doing it. A lot of times at dinner when people are signing up, they will ask their friends nearby to give as well," she said.
Kornexl said more than 80 people signed up to give blood for this drive, and more than 100 students, faculty and staff members attended the last blood drive.
Freshman Sarah Huser said she donated blood because there was a need and she was able to help meet that need.
"There are so many people who can't donate blood, there's no reason why those of us who can shouldn't when there are so many people who need it," she said.
Kornexl and others in the OSCE worked diligently to prepare for the drive. Students were able to volunteer to either donate blood, or if they were unable to, they could donate their time by helping check people in.
"I really enjoy getting people excited about giving blood and seeing the outcomes of the blood drive. It's always great to see how much Saint Mary's is willing to give," Kornexl said.
Saint Mary's College offers four blood drives a year. Two are held each semester, Kornexl said.
"There is always a need for blood, so if you're healthy enough to give, we strongly encourage students to consider this opportunity to save lives," she said.
Kornexl the blood drives are not just open to students and the entire community is invited to share the gift of life.
The next blood drive will be held on April 12 from noon to 6 p.m. Kornexl urged students and community members to visit RedCrossBlood.org and use the sponsor code ‘smcnd' to schedule an appointment to donate blood.
