Jefferson Student Awarded American Red Cross Scholarship for Service

Eiffel Vitug, a humanities and social sciences student at Jefferson Community College (JCC), received a $1,500 American Red Cross Scholarship after being named a SUNY Challenge Scholarship winner.

Vitug, of Watertown, has been a dedicated Red Cross volunteer since high school, a commitment she has continued during her time at Jefferson. 

“I saw how busy the nurses are as soon as the first appointment starts,” said Vitug. “To me, doing blood work seems tedious, so to have someone man the sign-in desk helps them a lot.”

When she learned she had been selected for the scholarship, Vitug was stunned. “I was very shocked! Saying I was ‘shocked’ doesn’t fully demonstrate the exact emotion I felt when I read the award letter. I didn’t expect to suddenly earn an ample sum of money just by being seen for doing service that I love to do - blood drives barely even feel like work. 

Vitug encourages others to see the broader impact of volunteering. “Never let anything in the past determine your opinion on what community service means. These opportunities give hope—to people, animals, plants, and the future of our planet. You may not like staying on campus during your lunch hour, but that hour helps someone donate blood. That blood then saves a life because you gave just a little of your time. Five minutes makes a difference.”

“Eiffel is a shining example of how one student’s commitment to service can ripple outward and truly make a difference,” said Matt Gorman, Director of Student Life at JCC. “Her passion and positivity inspire others to get involved, and we’re incredibly proud to see her dedication recognized at the state level.”

Jefferson Community College hosted four American Red Cross blood drives during the 2024-2025 academic year.