Castleton is pleased to have played an integral role in the Gift-of-Life Marathon, the nation's largest single blood drive in history.
The Gift-of-Life Marathon collected 2337 pints, crushing the old national record of 1,968 pints set by Manchester, N.H.
With tonight's results, Rutland now holds three of the top four spots on the list of the 10 biggest blood drives in U.S. history.
"This is such a statement by the greater Rutland community," said co-organizer Steve Costello from Green Mountain Power. "To outdo every single city and town in America is really mind-boggling."
"I could not be more proud of the Rutland region," WJJR Program Manager Terry Jaye said. "Christmas begins tonight."
Castleton President Dave Wolk spent the entire day operating a shuttle around Rutland and Castleton, to ensure donors had a safe trip to the five donation sites. In addition Wolk, a staunch supporter of the World Champion Boston Red Sox, challenged the Castleton University community to show up in force - agreeing to wear a New York Yankees jersey at the January Convocation, should the university surpass 100 participants. The goal was met, and you can expect to see Wolk making good on his promise at the January 23 event.
"Castleton feels blessed to be united with Rutland, Green Mountain Power and WJJR, in helping to make a difference for our community and our world," Wolk said. "I am really grateful that all our volunteers throughout the region broke the record and put Rutland back on top on the world map."