Nebraska Wins Inaugural Blood Drive Competition

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has triumphed in the inaugural 'We Give Blood Drive' competition, securing a $1 million prize to enhance student and community health. This achievement, celebrated during the Discover Big Ten Championship Game, was made possible by nearly 20,000 donors across the Big Ten Conference, with Nebraska contributing 4,000 donations, the highest of any participating school. The initiative, sponsored by the Big Ten and Abbott, aims to address a significant nationwide blood shortage, with potential to save up to 60,000 lives. University President Dr. Jeffrey Gold expressed pride in the community's spirit and the vital role of blood donations. The competition will return in 2025, continuing its goal to encourage young donors, particularly as donation rates among 19 to 24-year-olds have declined significantly. The success of this drive reflects both Nebraska's commitment to humanitarian efforts and its competitive spirit.