News Release April 11, 2008

Contact:
Julie Scott

303.361.2873
Bonfils Blood Center

Local Alumni Chapter Remembers Victims of Virginia Tech Shooting

Alumni will come together to give the gift of life on one year anniversary

DENVER (Apr. 10, 2008) – On Wednesday, April 16, 2008 alumni, friends, family and the entire “Hokie Nation” will come together to honor the 32 lives lost one year ago during the tragic shootings on the Virginia Tech campus. The Virginia Tech Denver Alumni Association will be hosting a special blood drive on this day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bonfils Blood Center location in Lowry at 7901 Lowry Blvd. This replenishment blood drive is a way for Virginia Tech alumni and community members to remember those who were lost, support Bonfils Blood Center, increase the community blood supply and support local patients. Not only will the drive pay tribute to those lost on April 16 at Virginia Tech, but each blood donation can also save and enhance the lives of up to three patients in need. Donors should call 303.363.2300 or visit www.bonfils.org to schedule an appointment prior to the blood drive on April 16, 2008.

The Virginia Tech Denver Alumni Association has also set up a group name “Denver Hokies,” (group number 6724) that allows any donor to give blood at any Bonfils Blood Center community donor center or mobile blood drive statewide in remembrance of the victims of Virginia Tech. This group name will be available throughout the year.

A remembrance service will also take place on April 16 and will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 East Hampden Ave. in Englewood.

Those unable to make a blood donation but with a desire to honor to the students lost in the tragedy, may join the National Marrow Donor Program or the Colorado Organ and Tissue Donor Registry at any Bonfils community donor center or mobile drive. Visit www.bonfils.org for more information about how to register.