MSU-Meridian faculty, staff and students donate through Mississippi Blood Services campus drive
Kamekia Collins, a phlebotomist with Mississippi Blood Services, talks with Courtney Bounds of Philadelphia, an MSU-Meridian Master of Science in Nursing student at the campus during the recent blood drive. PHOTO: Marianne Todd | Public Affairs
Mississippi State University-Meridian faculty, staff and students gave the gift of life as they donated blood recently at the MSU Riley Center.
“At MSU-Meridian, ‘Taking Care of What Matters’ is more than a university motto. It’s a responsibility we carry as a health-focused institution,” said Morgan Dudley, executive director of MSU-Meridian operations and director of the MSU Riley Center. “Partnering with our Meridian students for this blood drive reflects our mission and commitment to community impact, where one donation can mean hope for a family in crisis.”
MSU Police Cpl. Kody Biggs stopped by the Flowood-based Mississippi Blood Services donation site at the end of his shift. He has often witnessed the urgent need for blood while on the job.
“It’s why I carry tourniquets in my trauma kit on my belt every day,” he said. “Whenever they come to my work, I give.”
Courtney Bounds, a Master of Science in Nursing student from Philadelphia, said she donated her O negative-type blood.
“I know this type is the universal donor, and I know it’s in high demand,” she said.
MBS Mobile Supervisor Dantellius Boatman said the drive exceeded its 20-pint goal.
“Giving blood saves lives,” he said. “It helps cancer patients and burn victims, patients who are hospitalized for various reasons. We’re glad to be here.”
Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.
Marianne Todd | Public Affairs
