From Badger Pride to Saving Lives: GHI, GHA Rallies for 2026 We Give Blood Drive Campaign

By GHI Staffer Sreeja Puthireddy…At the University of Wisconsin–Madison, change is campus community turning collective action into a significant public impact. As a BIG10 School participating in the We Give Blood Campaign, Badgers show commitment to supporting their communities and saving lives. UW–Madison currently leads the 2026 campaign hoping to defend their 2025 title. 

The partnership with Abbott focuses on turning the passion of fans, students, and alumni into donations that help strengthen the nation’s blood supply. There is an ongoing need for blood donations, and bringing some friendly competition only motivates further public health efforts.

A photo take from an overhead angle featuring a wood table with white pom poms, UW Madison red and white signage, juice boxes, a box of snacks, and signage with the We Give Blood Drive campaign in red and white. There are multiple posters across the table that say ‘give blood’ and ‘Your donation saves lives’. The posters also have QR codes to scan to sign up and upload proof of donation for the blood campaign.
Fuel for donors. Snacks and refreshments to help the body stabilize. (photo courtesy S. Puthireddy)

The Global Health Institute recently hosted a blood drive to help UW–Madison’s We Give Blood Drive competition efforts. The responsibility and dedication was on full display, organized with the help of student organization Global Health Alliance (GHA) and the American Red Cross. The commitment between passionate students raising health awareness and experienced blood donation professionals brought together a team with shared goals to ensure patient safety and care while making a meaningful impact of:

  • 18 units of blood collected;
  • Two power red donors resulting in four units of blood collected;
  • One donor whose blood supports the essential Sickle Cell or Hispanic/Latino Initiatives; and
  • Up to 54 lives positively supported through these donations.

The success of the drive heavily relied on GHA members who helped patients at check-in, which created a welcoming and safe atmosphere – especially for two first time donors. The American Red Cross team helped the drive run smoothly with their support and expertise. Overall, both helped build an environment where every donor could feel the profound impact of their service. 

A photo taken of a table with a red tablecloth. The table has a large poster board on top by American Red Cross. The sign contains information about blood donation requirements. The rest of the table has multiple posters that say ‘give blood’ and ‘Your donation saves lives’. The posters also have QR codes to scan to sign up and upload proof of donation for the blood campaign. There is also a box with brochures by GHI.
Registration and check-in station for donors (photo courtesy S. Puthireddy)

Blood is a priority for patients undergoing surgery, injuries, and serious health conditions. Blood has no artificial alternatives and highly depends on volunteers to help maintain crucial, life-saving supplies. Each donor makes a difference.

UW–Madison is committed to bringing meaningful change. First time donors, student organizations, and professionals bring together their individual actions to strengthen a culture of care and outreach. Badgers can still make a difference. Let’s keep the momentum going for UW–Madison to lead the We Give Blood Campaign again this year, and save lives one donation at a time.

Learn more at the We Give Blood Campaign and read the inspiring story of GHI’s Calyn Ostrowski and her live-changing experience with blood donations.