WKU News

WKU and Middle Tennessee State University will compete on the football field Nov. 30, but off the field the two universities will go head to head in their annual blood drive competition from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 18-20 to collect donations for the American Red Cross.

In Bowling Green, campus and community members can schedule appointments to donate at the Preston Health and Activities Center. Free reserved parking is available, and every donor will receive two free tickets to the Nov. 30 football game. 

“Donating blood is one of the easiest ways we can save lives,” said Olivia Perkins, WKU Blood Drive Planning Committee Chair and Residence Hall Director. “It is a simple process that normally lasts around an hour, and with one donation, you can save up to three lives! Plus, who doesn’t love a healthy competition with our local rival that all supports a good cause.”

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, according to Tiffany Taylor, American Red Cross External Communications Manager. Those who may need blood donations include accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer, or sickle cell disease. 

While the drive is titled the Blood Battle competition, the WKU planning committee uses the theme “Give Red Give Life” to emphasize Perkins’ sentiments, that up to three lives can be saved with each donation.

After a few years of the MTSU community presenting the most donors, WKU is looking to the entire campus and local community to show their support for the cause. 

“I’m also hoping this event will help educate those at WKU and in Warren County about the benefits and impact that donating blood can have,” Perkins added.

Donors can visit www.wku.edu/givered and follow the link to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also welcome. There will be designated parking for community members who are scheduled to donate. In addition, presenting donors will receive a commemorative WKU vs. MTSU T-shirt while supplies last. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

This year’s blood drive winner will be announced during the WKU vs. MTSU football game Nov. 30 at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium.

The WKU vs. MTSU Blood Drive is coordinated by WKU Student Activities and American Red Cross with support from WKU Athletics, Health Education and Promotion, and Communications & Marketing.

For information, visit www.wku.edu/givered or contact Olivia Perkins at olivia.perkins@wku.edu or Tiffany Taylor at tiffany.taylor@redcross.org. The American Red Cross approved offer reference for the T-shirt giveaway is - 2019-APL-01849.