G. Ray Bodley’s Student Senate sponsored a recent blood drive through the American Red Cross. On Thursday, March 9, 32 students from throughout the high school participated, allowing the donation of 28 units of blood.

The event continues the return of school traditions that existed prior to Covid-19, when both a fall and spring blood drive were common. While recent donation numbers were lower than what was typically seen before the pandemic, Red Cross officials note that this trend has been a common one and only serves to highlight the importance of events like these.

Angela Ferlito, the Student Senate advisor, was pleased to announce an impressive number of first-time donors among high school students.

“I am extremely proud of all the GRB students who donated and who volunteered to work our blood drive,” Ferlito noted. “It was heartwarming to see our students cheering on their peers who made the choice to donate for the first time!  I am glad our students and staff were able to help, knowing how critical the need for blood is in our community."