Swab to Save Lives: Jax State Partners with NMDP for Campus Marrow Donor Drive
10/31/2025
Jacksonville State University will host a campus-wide NMDP (National Marrow Donor Program) Drive from Monday, November 10 through Wednesday, November 12, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. The event aims to educate students and the community about marrow donation and provide opportunities to join the national registry through a simple cheek swab.
Booths will be located across campus at the Library, Dining Hall, Martin Lobby, South Campus, TMB Lobby, and UREC, with additional outreach planned at athletic events and community locations. The drive may be extended to Thursday and Friday based on early participation and interest. Volunteers will also come to individual classrooms to provide education.
“This is a powerful opportunity for our campus to come together and potentially save lives,” said Dr. Jenna Ridlen, pre-health faculty advisor and event co-organizer. “We’re excited to partner with NMDP and engage students, faculty, and staff in this meaningful cause.”
Volunteer & Training Opportunities
Student volunteers must complete training. A volunteer training and kickoff event will be held on Tuesday, November 4 from 5–6 PM in Merrill B10. This will count as a Jax Mix Community Engagement event. An online training option will also be available on Thursday, November 6 in the evening.
Students Sign Up
Faculty Request for classroom visits from NMDP Representatives
Volunteers who complete 20 hours of service are eligible to receive a graduation cord through NMDP. Participation in the NMDP Drive can count toward Jax Mix Completion Badge Projects, and volunteers will receive event t-shirts.
Community & Campus Engagement
The event is supported by a broad coalition of campus organizations including American Medical Students Association (AMSA), Honors, Public Health, Student Athletics, SGA, TriBeta, Pre-PA, and more. Additional outreach is planned with Greek Life, coaches, and community partners.
Promotional materials will be distributed through Red & White, SGA, and Athletics, with banners and QR codes featured at Men’s Basketball and Football games.
For more information or to get involved, contact Jenna Ridlen jridlen@jsu.edu or Melinda Garrington at mgarrington@nmdp.org.
Learn More about NMDP: https://www.nmdp.org/