West Windsor, N.J. – With the replenishment of blood supplies in the state of New Jersey an ever-present concern, Mercer County Community College (MCCC) and Fulton Bank teamed up once again to host an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Jan. 28.

According to MCCC Assistant Dean for Student Services John Simone, 48 units of blood were collected during the five-hour event at the Student Center. In addition to staff members from both institutions, a number of Mercer students answered the call.  Among them were 11 student athletes, who were encouraged to participate by Athletic Trainer Lisa Camillone. Camillone donates blood regularly and says she is motivated by knowing that she is helping people in need.

Said soccer player Jean Valdo-Baptiste, "This is the second year I have donated. It only takes about 10 minutes."

Simone believes that opportunities like the Blood Drive give students a way to make a difference in their community and sets the right tone for their lives ahead.