The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is once again teaming up with Abbott and the Big Ten Conference for the We Give Blood challenge — a national campaign aimed at addressing critical blood shortages and encouraging young adults to become donors.
From Aug. 27 to Dec. 5, all Huskers are encouraged to donate blood and log their donations to count toward Nebraska’s total. Each donation supports a lifesaving cause — and could help the university defend its title as the 2024 challenge champion.
In 2024, more than 20,000 Big Ten donors participated, helping save an estimated 60,000 lives. Nebraska topped the leaderboard, earning $1 million to advance student and community health initiatives. That victory went beyond school pride — it showed what a united campus and community can accomplish together. Now, the opportunity is back, and every donation counts.
“This isn’t just about recognition,” said Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, president of the University of Nebraska system. “It’s about showing up for others and continuing Nebraska’s proud tradition of service. Last year, Nebraskans made a difference in tens of thousands of lives. We have the chance to do that again.”
Blood is needed every two seconds in the United States. Donations support trauma victims, mothers after childbirth, surgical patients and those undergoing cancer treatment. Yet blood centers across the country are experiencing dangerously low supply levels, and donations from young adults have declined significantly.
The We Give Blood challenge taps into the energy of college sports and school spirit to drive real-world impact. All 18 Big Ten universities are rallying their communities to donate. The school with the most verified donations will receive $1 million to support student or community health projects.
“The We Give Blood drive showcases the incredible impact our Husker community can make when we work together,” said Troy Dannen, Nebraska athletic director. “Winning last year was a proud moment for the University of Nebraska, and we’re excited to continue supporting this lifesaving effort alongside the Big Ten and Abbott.”
How to join the challenge
- Donate blood anywhere in the U.S. between Aug. 27 and Dec. 5.
- Log your donation (with your name, photo or confirmation email) at BigTen.org/Abbott or by texting DONATE to 222688 (ABBOTT).
- Track progress in real time at BigTen.org/Abbott.
Whether donating on campus or at a local blood center, every contribution helps — and all logged donations count toward Nebraska’s total.
On-campus blood drive opportunities
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
- Aug. 27: S Street off the Plaza | 1 to 6 p.m.
- Sept. 30 to Oct. 3: Homecoming Blood Drive | Sponsored by Student Life and ASUN
- 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 29, City Campus
- 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 30, City Campus
- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oct. 1, East Campus
- 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oct. 2, City Campus
- Nov. 6: Memorial Stadium | 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Nov. 19 to 21: St. Mark’s on the Campus | Sponsored by the American Red Cross
University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Aug. 28: Center for Healthy Living | 9 a.m. to noon
- Sept. 23: Lied Transplant Center | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Oct. 30: Center for Healthy Living | 9 a.m. to noon
- Nov. 25: Lied Transplant Center | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Each pint of donated blood can save up to three lives. Whether you are a first-time donor or continuing a long-standing commitment, this is an opportunity to support public health and show the strength of Husker Nation.
With national recognition and support for student and community health on the line, Nebraska is ready once again to compete — and contribute.
