Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics has earned the 2025-26 CCAA Cares Community Service Award for its impactful blood stem cell donor registry drive, adding 432 individuals to the National Marrow Donor Program. The initiative, titled "Help Save a Life," was executed by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and ran from February 10-13, 2026. It highlights the importance of community service efforts and showcases how student-athletes can significantly contribute beyond sports. This event stands out as the highest total recorded during that registration period in the USA, fostering awareness and collaborative spirit among student-athletes and campus organizations.

By the Numbers
  • 432 new individuals added to the National Marrow Donor Program registry.
  • This drive achieved the highest total for NMDP registries in the U.S. during its timeframe.
State of Play
  • The successful drive united student-athletes, faculty, staff, and the local community.
  • The initiative raised awareness about the need for bone marrow and stem cell donors.
What's Next

Cal Poly Humboldt will receive a commemorative plaque and a $500 award, reinforcing its commitment to community service initiatives. Future projects may focus on replicating this model for other important health causes.

Bottom Line

This recognition underscores the profound impact that student-athletes can have on their communities when they leverage their platforms for service, enhancing both their athletic programs and broader societal engagement.