When I was nineteen and attending college a professor suggested I apply to work at a local blood center in the Chicagoland suburbs. I did and became a life-long Donor Services Professional. I knew immediately that this was my career path. The instant gratification knowing that what I was doing made a lifesaving difference is what has kept me passionate about working at a Blood Center.
After 26 years in blood banking, I am currently the Director of Donor Services at Michigan Blood. A good day for me is when my team accomplishes their goals, donors receive a great experience, and our hospital partners get what they need which results in quality patient outcomes. Through engaging donors and employees I can be sure that giving grows at our Blood Center and in our community.
As we all know, blood banking is an ever changing industry and we are constantly faced with challenges by FDA mandates and recommendations. These are to keep donors and patients safe. So, we have to be nimble and respond to the changes. As the great REO Speedwagon sang, “roll with the changes.” This is what we do at a Blood Center.
I am proud of what I do every day. Because of the terrific teams I manage and have managed throughout my career, my peers, my colleagues, and the commitment from all blood bank professionals, I receive heartfelt joy day in and day out.