Heather McNamara Leadership and Blood Donation Advocacy Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by New York Blood Center
Heather McNamara Leadership and Blood Donation Advocacy Scholarship
Overview
The Heather McNamara Leadership and Blood Donation Advocacy Scholarship celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and community service in support of the New York Blood Center (NYBC). It was created to honor Heather McNamara, a devoted friend of NYBC and a passionate champion for blood donation. Heather was a blood transfusion recipient throughout her courageous fight with cancer; she frequently participated in NYBC activities and shared her experience with local media to encourage others to give. This award recognizes students who follow her example by actively promoting the life-saving importance of voluntary blood donation—either through personal advocacy or by organizing meaningful community programs.
Types of activities considered
Relevant contributions may include, but are not limited to:
- Creating a legacy donor program to ensure ongoing collections;
- Coordinating multiple campus or community blood drives;
- Leading awareness campaigns through marketing, promotions, or social media;
- Building partnerships and recruiting other leaders and organizations to support donation efforts.
Eligibility requirements
- Must be a current high school senior or an undergraduate student engaged in blood donation support efforts within New York or New Jersey.
- Must have shown leadership in community service that supports or advocates for voluntary blood donation (for example: organizing drives, speaking publicly, or using one’s personal story to raise awareness).
- Must submit the completed application form, one letter of reference, and a 250-word essay explaining why they are qualified for this scholarship.
Examples of suitable applicants
- A blood transfusion recipient who publicly uses their story—via media interviews, social channels, or speeches—to encourage voluntary donation.
- A high school or college student who has launched or sustained a legacy program so their school regularly hosts blood drives.
- A student who has successfully recruited elected officials, community leaders, or businesses to become active advocates for blood donation.