Her Story
About Marie
I've been involved in blood banking for 34 years, and throughout my career, I've been passionate about connecting people inside and outside the blood industry to make meaningful change. I started out as a broadcast journalist at an alternative rock radio station because I always loved telling stories. I was looking for a public affairs job and applied for what looked like a public relations position at New Jersey Blood Services in 1992, but it was actually working at the blood center recruiting blood donors. From there, I was promoted to senior leadership and eventually became president of the Association for Donor Recruitment Professionals, serving on the board for 6 years and as president for 2. I then took a role as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Blood Connection in the Carolinas. Now I am part of the leadership team as a contractor for Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas. This documentary brings me back full circle, where I am now telling the story I want to tell - a compelling story of why there is a blood shortage and getting more eyes and ears on it. The challenges we had 34 years ago with not enough blood donors have really intensified, especially after the pandemic, with a 50% drop in donors under a certain age over the last 10 years. My goal is to make the national blood supply self-sufficient and regain a sense of kindness throughout the country through blood donation.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marie
01What do you attribute your success to?
The power of positivity and the belief that people are generally good. I am not deflated by a "no". It simply energizes me to either improve myself and try again or persevere with positivity. If you are positive people are drawn to you and it builds a team. One you create a team there isn't anything that you can't accomplish. It is always about the "we" and not the "me".
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
It was from the Administrative Assistant in the Ernie Pyle Journalism School when I was set for a meeting with a Legendary professor for a job recommendaton in NYC Media my senior year of college. He was a no-show. I was deflated. It was a gloomy, rainy day and I felt insignificant. She asked who I was waiting for and I told her and she said "wait, let me call him". I was mortified. She called. He came and gave me a great recommendation. When I was leaving she shared that he had a prostetic leg and avoided going out in the rain. She told me we are all equals and no one is better than anyone else. I took that with me but also don't judge a book by its cover. I would have never known that he had challenges that weren't visible.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be a dreamer of big things but stay grounded and motivated. Don't scimp on the details and find your people. FInd the men and women who are going to build you up and if your situation isn't positive-move on.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The national blood supply is at a critical stage with a shrinking donor base. New innovations are slow to evolve in this non-profit sector. Change is needed so it is a great time to partner with the media, tech companies and the industry to change the narrative and make blood donation a positive experience and a right of passage. Spread the message of sharing your good health if you are lucky enough to have it.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Never forgetting the fun AND learning something new each day. It could be something really simple. My family and friends are paramount as is health and wellness. I value positivity and integrity in people and that gives me energy.
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