This semester's American Red Cross blood drive, sponsored by the Leonard Carmichael Society, ended yesterday.
According to sophomore Marybeth Paruti, one of the event's coordinators, about 220 people came in to donate since the drive began on Monday.
This is 65 fewer people than last semester. "The number last semester was probably higher because spring is when many of the sports seasons take place, and because we didn't have as much time to advertise this semester," she said.
About 20 volunteers helped with the event. "We usually have a pretty good volunteer turnout. There wasn't a time when we were short-staffed," Paruti said.
Those who donated spoke to the importance of the act. "It's a simple thing that makes a difference. It doesn't require much of your time," walk-in donor Daniel Rosen, a freshman, said.
Paruti emphasized the need for blood collections. "The demand for blood is so high, especially after natural disasters like Katrina. A lot of people don't realize how badly blood is needed," she said.
The next blood drive will take place in mid-April.
- by Ashley Pandya
