Blood Drive Big Success

Blood Drive Big Success

CIU student Elizabeth Dews giving blood.

By Emily Regan

CIU Student Writer

Columbia International University students came through in a big way for the American Red Cross and the community. A goal of 31 donors was set for a September 15 blood drive. That goal was exponentially exceeded an hour before the drive ever ended.  

The student center quickly became a place where students anxiously gathered to either donate or to encourage their friends and professors who rolled up their sleeves.

CIU Dean Dr. Bryan Beyer, who is on the local board of the American Red Cross, says the school has been sponsoring blood drives twice a year for at least the past 25 years.

“As a Christian university, it is important that we sponsor events like this so that we can be an example to the community,” Beyer said.

The blood drive was promoted on campus, but also to the community on CIU radio station WMHK.

“The student leadership really got involved this year and made this a great event.” Rick Swift, dean of Student Life said. “The majority of the blood donated today came from our students.”

And the CIU students indicated their desire to help the community.

 “I love that CIU gives us so many different opportunities to practically give back to the community,” freshman Allie Everhart said. “Donating today, I helped save the lives of people.”