SGA, Red Cross hold annual blood drive

The Student Government Association (SGA) held a blood drive in the Trojan Center lounge.  

However, this was no average blood drive. Troy was going head-to-head with rival South Alabama in a showdown to see who can donate more blood. 

The SGA partnered with American Red Cross in hopes of beating the Jaguars.   

“Obviously, it’s South Hate Week," said Vice President of Student Affairs Abby Gilliand, a junior hospitality tourism and event management major from Alexander City, Alabama. "We want to beat South to get the bragging rights, but it’s honestly such a good thing to do. 

"You’re helping save people from things like car crashes and cancer." 

Vrund Shah is a graduate student majoring in artificial intelligence from Anand, India, and has donated blood four times since coming to the United States in August of 2024.  

“I try to donate blood once every couple of months,” Shah said. “As an O positive blood type, I really love to donate blood. 

"It’s my way to help the community. I could give money, but by giving blood, I could help save someone’s life." 

Austin Gamble, a sophomore social work major from Headland, Alabama, said he realized the value of blood drives when his mother needed a blood transfusion.  

“I did a blood drive last April, and I learned I was O positive,” Gamble said. “I know that’s a sought-after blood type, so I showed up to donate blood. 

“A while ago, my mom underwent surgery, and something ended up happening to where she needed a blood transfusion. Situations like that made me realize the importance of donating my blood.” 

To Gilliand, the blood drive is about more than just beating South Alabama.  

“I have had a couple of family members that have had cancer and needed blood," Gilliand said. "Having access to blood donations is such a great thing. 

"It really makes you see how helpful it can be, especially to families. It makes you feel good to give blood, but it’s really such an awesome thing for those families." 

No matter the shade of red, and no matter the school, those who donate blood to those in need are the real winners.