Citrus College Students Recognized for National Blood Drive Effort

By Brandi Garcia and Paula Green, Citrus College

Citrus College has been recognized for its successful contribution to the annual Cesar E. Chavez National Blood Drive Challenge. The college, a recipient of the “2013 Most Successful Blood Drive Award,” placed first among California colleges and third among the 245 colleges and universities that participated in the blood drive throughout the United States. 

This is the second consecutive year in which Citrus College has placed among the top participating colleges in the blood drive, ranking 15th in 2012. 

The Cesar E. Chavez National Blood Drive Challenge is an annual competition organized by the Immigrant Youth of America and the American Red Cross.  The Associated Students of Citrus College (ASCC) and the college’s Inter Club Council spearheaded the Citrus College effort. 

“I commend the ASCC leadership and the students for taking such an active role in this important community service effort,” said Dr. Geraldine M. Perri, Citrus College superintendent/president.  “Their actions were an outstanding demonstration of service learning.  I am confident they will continue to give back to their communities after they have completed their education at Citrus College.” 

Crescencio Calderon, former Citrus College student trustee, initiated the college-wide blood drive as a tribute to Cesar E. Chavez and as a means of galvanizing involvement among Citrus College students, faculty, and staff.  Over a two-day period, 321 registered donors gave 264 pints of blood.  The local chapter of the American Red Cross assisted in the effort.

“I am very proud of our students and their efforts to serve the community,” said Mrs. Susan M. Keith, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees.  “Their commitment to saving lives is wonderful, and we look forward to their future volunteer efforts.”