March 11, 2008

TULSA, OK - University of Tulsa has won the first annual "Points & Pints" Red Cross blood drive challenge between the Golden Hurricane and the University of Alabama -Birmingham. TU collected 120 units of blood or had 4% of the student population to donate the "Gift of Life." UAB collected 99 units or .09% of their student population.

"I'm proud of our Golden Hurricane family for their efforts. As I've said before, providing support for the Red Cross locally through this competition was a privilege, "said TU Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham. "And, it was good to win the challenge."

TU's winning efforts came at a particularly opportune time. The Red Cross reports that blood donations have been significantly lower over the past few weeks due to the great many Tulsans affected by the current flu epidemic. If you were unable to donate during the challenge, the Red Cross still needs your donation. Appointments can be made by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE.

"I can not overstate enough the importance of what the TU students, faculty and staff did for the Red Cross, and more importantly for our community. The challenge made it fun, but the reality is that we asked for help and TU delivered," said Delisa English, CEO, American Red Cross Blood Services Southwest Region, Oklahoma. "And, we have the bragging rights for a year."

To donate blood, you must be 17 and weigh 110 pounds to donate blood. The Red Cross reminds those coming to donate to bring a photo ID such as a driver's license or Red Cross donor card.

The American Red Cross provides relief to victims of disasters at home and abroad, collects and distributes nearly half of the nation's blood supply, teaches lifesaving skills, and supports military members and families. The American Red Cross, a charity and not a government agency, depends on voluntary contributions of time, money and blood to perform its humanitarian mission.