Stephens College Students Answer the Call Amid National Blood Shortage
Stephens College students in the Tri Beta Biological Honors Society stepped up to meet a critical need by partnering with the American Red Cross to host a campus blood drive during a severe national blood shortage. The Red Cross recently reported that blood supplies have dropped by nearly 35% nationwide, prompting an urgent call for donations.
Tri-Beta brings this lifesaving event to campus every semester – though scheduling conflicts prevented the event from being held last semester. The organizations’ goal is to improve the understanding and appreciation of biological research, external relations and interpersonal communication.
Katelyn Freiner, president of the Stephens College Tri Beta Society, explained that Tri Beta prioritizes services that connects with students’ academic interests and future careers.
“We always try to do blood drives because it’s a great way to give back to our community,” said Freiner. “Since we are a biology honor society, a lot of us are interested in health sciences, and this is just a great way to give back in a way that’s related to our future field and what we’re studying.”
The timing felt especially meaningful given the nation shortage. “When they told me that there’s a severe shortage, it just was like extra good that we’re doing it right now, because it’s really needed,” said Freiner.
According to the American Red Cross, increased hospital demand, widespread flu activity and winter weather disruptions have significantly reduced donor turnout across the country. These challenges have left hospitals struggling to supply blood for trauma victims, patients with cancer or sickle cell disease and mothers in childbirth – groups who often rely on immediate access to transfusions.
With many donors showing up for scheduled appointments and even more walk-ins, the Stephens community helped contribute valuable units of blood at a critical moment.
“I’m just really thankful for everyone who’s come out to help today.” Freiner added.
The Red Cross continues to urge eligible donors to schedule appointments at RedCrossBlood.org or through the Blood Donor App or keep an eye out for notifications next fall about more campus blood drives.
