Media Contact: Lily McCormick
Regional Communications Manager
lily.mccormick@redcross.org | 385-584-7610
SALT LAKE CITY (May 6, 2025) — The American Red Cross proudly celebrates National Nurses Week by recognizing the profound impact nurses have in delivering compassionate care across all areas of its mission. Here in Utah, our partnerships with local nursing schools not only empower aspiring nurses to gain valuable hands-on experience but also make a meaningful impact through initiatives like blood drives, fire safety education and community health programs.
The Red Cross of Utah is partnering with institutions such as Arizona College of Nursing, Salt Lake Community College’s Nursing Program and Roseman University’s Nursing Program. These relationships are part of an ongoing effort to integrate nursing students into the Red Cross volunteer network while providing tailored opportunities for them to use their skills to serve others.
“Nurses remain one of the most invaluable resources we have at the Red Cross. Their training and expertise allow them to contribute significantly to every aspect of our mission,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “We deeply value our partnerships with nursing colleges as they not only strengthen our mission but also inspire the next generation of nurses to channel their professional skills into humanitarian service.”
A Storied History of Nurses in the American Red Cross
For more than a century, nurses have been at the heart of the American Red Cross. Long before the creation of the formal Red Cross Nursing Service in 1909, nurses were already stepping up to answer the call during wars, natural disasters, public health emergencies and everyday crises. Today, Red Cross nurses are involved in diverse roles, including disaster response, blood services, education, community preparedness, Service to the Armed Forces and leadership positions on boards and committees, exemplifying the vital role they play in keeping our communities strong.
Impact of Local Nursing Partnerships
Over the last two years, nearly 300 nursing students from the region have volunteered with the Red Cross, with over 100 of them serving in Utah. These dedicated students have collectively contributed over 1,500 hours of volunteer service, including 900 hours supporting blood drives to care for donors and safeguard the blood supply, and over 500 hours participating in the Home Fire Campaign by installing free smoke alarms and delivering lifesaving fire safety education to local communities.
Continuing Opportunities Beyond Graduation
The need for skilled, compassionate nurses is central to Red Cross operations, and their contributions extend far beyond their time as students. From working with healthcare teams that include physicians, social workers and mental health professionals, to supporting resilience and recovery efforts, nurses are essential to the Red Cross mission. The Red Cross remains committed to fostering meaningful partnerships with nursing students and helping them continue their journeys with the Red Cross after graduation.
About National Nurses Week
National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6-12, concluding on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This week is a time to celebrate the dedication and contributions of nurses across the country. The American Nursing Association and other organizations encourage communities to support and express gratitude to the incredible nurses in their lives for the difference they make each day.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
