Media contact: Sarah Martin
Regional Communications Manager
sarah.martin5@redcross.org | 951-432-9625

SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 16, 2024) — The 21st Annual Blood Battle between Utah State University and Weber State concluded on Friday; students and faculty members donated a whopping 594 units of blood total this year, exceeding our goal for both schools. The two-week-long Red Cross drive began in 2003 and each year the friendly competition garners life-saving results.

“We are constantly inspired by these students and grateful to them for such a long tradition of service through blood donation,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah and Southwest Wyoming Chapter. “21 years of friendly competition has saved countless lives and we hope the students will feel their impact and continue this legacy of blood donation long past their graduations.”

The USU Aggies took the trophy for the 6th year in a row with 363 units donated. USU’s President Cantwell participated in the drive and said, “Community service is a cornerstone of Utah State's mission. I'm incredibly grateful to our students, faculty, staff, and community members who participated in this year's Blood Battle. This event not only supports a vital cause but also fosters a culture of lifelong service. Thank you to everyone from both Utah State and Weber State for your generous contributions.”

Weber State President Brad Mortensen gave a Power Red donation at this year’s drive; he said, “I’m always inspired by the turnout when we have the Red Cross on campus, and this year was no exception. We're coming together for a great cause, and we’re building camaraderie with other universities and our communities along the way.”

Both schools are already looking ahead to the 2025 Blood Battle. “The American Red Cross is proud to carry on this tradition of service with USU and Weber State and we certainly enjoy the friendly competition; but there’s no need to wait until next year to give blood. We encourage everyone eligible to donate to find an appointment near you,” said Smauldon.

Make a donation appointment today
The Red Cross plays a crucial role in maintaining the country's blood supply, contributing around 40% of all collected blood. To meet the needs of patients at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must collect 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. In Utah, approximately 45 hospitals rely on the Red Cross for their blood supply.

Donors can make an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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.

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