Weber State faces Utah State in annual battle for life-saving blood donations
OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University will “bleed purple” as it hosts the 21st Annual American Red Cross Blood Battle Sept. 9–13 at two locations on the Ogden campus.
The Blood Battle pits WSU against Utah State University in a friendly competition to see which school can supply the most blood. WSU and USU have a goal to collect 500 units of blood each.
The event is open to stude
nts, staff, faculty and community members. All blood donors will receive a commemorative t-shirt while supplies last.
The Dee Events Center will welcome donors Sept. 9–12 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Shepherd Union Ballroom will take donations Sept. 9–10 and 12–13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Weber State is honored to host the Red Cross on our campus every year,” said WSU President Brad Mortensen. “We see a lot of walk-ins, including students and employees, but we also get lots of people from the community. Ultimately, people walk away knowing they’re saving and prolonging lives, and that’s really what we’re ‘battling’ for.”
This summer, the Red Cross has faced a national blood supply shortage, highlighting the need for events like this.
“The American Red Cross is thankful for the community for supporting Weber State in hosting this blood drive. For 20 years, this blood battle has really brought the Northern Utah community together to save lives,” said Michael Smauldon, executive director of the Northern Utah Chapter of the American Red Cross. “The need is constant, and the students help lead the way to ensure we have the blood supply needed at our hospitals.”
Although walk-ins are welcome, donors can also make an appointment to give blood or platelets by visiting the Red Cross website, calling 1-800-733-2767 or using the Red Cross Blood Donor app. Use the sponsor code BLEEDPURPLE to support Weber State.
Chloee Robison, Marketing & Communications
801-626-7948, chloeerobison@weber.edu- Contact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu