Last week, our school held its most recent blood drive, continuing a long-standing tradition of giving students the chance to support a lifesaving cause. The drive marked an important moment in our school community, not just because of the strong turnout and successful donations, but because it introduced a new way to honor students who consistently participate. This year’s fall drive officially launched the Cord of Courage, a graduation cord awarded to students who donate blood three times during their high school years. With two drives scheduled each year, this new program makes it possible for students to earn recognition for a commitment that goes beyond a single event.
The Cord of Courage was organized to come to school by Adorina Gorail, the junior class Student Council president. After seeing how many students were eager to donate but unsure of how their efforts connected across different drives she “worked to establish a system that rewards long-term dedication”. Her idea was simple but powerful: giving blood is an act of courage, and those who make the effort repeatedly deserve to be acknowledged in a meaningful way at graduation.
This fall’s blood drive was the first opportunity for students to begin, or continue, their progress toward earning the cord. The event took place throughout the school day, allowing students to donate during study halls or elective periods. The flow of donors remained steady from morning to afternoon, with volunteers helping check students in, monitor waiting areas, and ensure the process ran smoothly. While the procedures of a blood drive are familiar to many students, this one carried an extra sense of purpose because participants knew it counted toward a long-term goal.
The criteria for earning the Cord of Courage are straightforward: donate at three school blood drives before graduation. The Cord of Courage, according to the program website, “is a program dedicated to recognize these student’s lifesaving efforts”. Since the school hosts two drives each year, typically one in the fall and one in the spring, students can complete the requirement over the course of two years or, for some, even sooner. This structure encourages students not only to donate once, but to return consistently and build a habit of engaging in community service. Many students have already expressed excitement about the new opportunity, and some who donated this fall have already completed one or more of the three donations needed.
The introduction of the cord also brings clarity to students who may previously have donated without realizing the potential for ongoing recognition. By officially linking donations across multiple drives, the program gives students something tangible to work toward, which in turn strengthens participation at each event. For younger students, especially sophomores and juniors, it adds a new level of motivation to get involved early so they can meet the requirement by the time they graduate.
The significance of the Cord of Courage goes beyond its appearance in graduation photos. It represents an award that cannot be earned through academics, athletics, or extracurricular involvement alone. Instead, it recognizes an act of personal bravery and generosity, choosing to give to help save the lives of others. By donating blood three times, students demonstrate perseverance, compassion, and a willingness to contribute to the well-being of their community.
The successful turnout at the fall drive sets a strong foundation for the spring event. Because the school now has a clear system for tracking donations, participation is expected to remain strong, and likely even grow. The spring drive will be the second of the year and the next chance for students to earn one of their three required donations. Many students who began their progress this fall are already planning to return, while others who were not able to donate this time have expressed interest in joining in the spring.
The introduction of the Cord of Courage represents an important shift in how our school community views service. It shows that giving back is something worth celebrating, and that students who commit to helping others deserve to be recognized. As this new tradition takes root, it will likely become one of the most meaningful distinctions available at graduation.
With its successful debut, the Cord of Courage has already begun to inspire students, and with two blood drives every year, plenty of opportunities lie ahead. The spring drive will not just be another event on the calendar, but the next chapter in a growing culture of courage, leadership, and compassion.