The University of Iowa Athletics Department is participating in the second annual “We Give Blood” drive, a competition organized by Abbott and the Big Ten Conference. The initiative seeks to address a national shortage of blood donations by encouraging students, fans, and alumni to participate.
Blood supplies remain critically low in some areas, with some centers reporting less than a one-day supply. Demand for blood is constant due to needs from trauma victims, childbirth complications, and cancer treatments. Despite this ongoing need, there has been a decline in young donors as people age out of eligibility.
Mandy McClenahan at University of Iowa Health Care DeGowin Blood Center emphasized the importance of participation: “Giving blood is the prime example of how Hawkeyes help Hawkeyes. Every blood donation can save multiple lives, but we need more people to donate. We need Hawkeyes across the state and U.S. to come together to show how we bleed black and gold.”
Beth Goetz, Henry B. and Patricia B. Tippie Director of Athletics Chair, encouraged involvement from the community: “Hawkeye Nation — it’s time to rise up and make a difference! The ‘We Give Blood’ competition isn’t just about school pride, it’s about saving lives. Every drop of blood donated by our students, alumni, and fans brings us closer to winning $1 million to boost health right here in our community,” she said. “Let’s turn our passion into purpose, show the Big Ten what Iowa is made of, and flood the leaderboard with Hawkeye heart. Step up, roll up your sleeves, and let’s win this — together!”
Participants can donate blood at drives or centers nationwide between August 27 and December 5. In Iowa City, donations may be made at DeGowin’s drives or hospital-based center for UI Health Care patients.
This year’s campaign offers additional incentives such as exclusive T-shirts for those who log their donation during the event period—including on College Colors Day on August 29.
After donating, participants are encouraged to register their donation online at bigten.org/abbott or by texting “DONATE” to ABBOTT (222688). Progress will be tracked live throughout the campaign.
The winning school will receive $1 million from Abbott at the Big Ten Championship Game on December 6 in Indianapolis; these funds are intended for student or community health initiatives.
