On Wednesday, April 15, the RCDS Public Purpose program hosted its annual Blood Drive in partnership with New York Blood Center. For one day, the Athletic Center Multi-purpose Room was transformed into a bustling blood donation center as new and veteran donors—students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni—participated in this meaningful tradition. Rye Country Day School has partnered with NYBC since 2007 to hold 27 Blood Drives to date.

The collaborative day is a community effort. Upper School student volunteers help escort donors from the donation chairs to the snack and recovery area. Parent volunteers also assist with check-in. In the run-up to the drive, the Public Purpose Student Leadership Board—a student advisory group that helps centralize and support Public Purpose initiatives—raises awareness about the importance of donating blood and promotes peer participation through announcements at Community Meeting and sign-up tables.

This year’s drive marked an exciting milestone: RCDS surpassed 1,000 total blood donations as a school community. Senior Cason Dean ’26 had the special honor of making the milestone donation surrounded by RCDS faculty as well as Rye Mayor Josh Nathan, Rye City Council Member Amy Kesavan P'30, P'32, and Westchester County Legislator Anand Nambiar.

“It was an inspiring day of giving back in a tangible and crucial way,” remarked Director of public Rebecca Drago. “Our volunteers and donors contributed to an atmosphere of purpose and care as they gave a gift that supports the critical needs of patients and saves lives.” 

Reflecting on the School’s collaboration with NYBC, Ms. Drago said, “I am thankful for Rye Country Day’s longstanding partnership with New York Blood Center. This initiative is an important and beloved embodiment of our motto Not for Self but for Service. We are already looking forward to next year's blood drive!”

In celebration of the exciting milestone, Rye Country Day was honored to receive a special proclamation from the Westchester County Board of Legislators declaring April 23 Rye Country Day School Day in Westchester County.

“We are deeply humbled by this county recognition,” said Head of School Randall Dunn. “Our commitment to service and community partnership drives everything we do. Being able to host a blood drive for two decades with the partnership of New York Blood Center is very special to us. Thank you.”

Rye Country Day School extends heartfelt gratitude to NYBC for this important partnership, to our community members for donating and helping organize the drive, and Mayor Nathan, Council member Kesavan, and Legislator Nambiar for their support.