Christopher France discussed his research on recruiting and retaining blood donors Tuesday night.
Ohio University awarded a professor with its highest faculty honor at a lecture Tuesday night.
Christopher France, a professor of psychology who was named 2014’s distinguished professor at last year’s Graduate Commencement, discussed his findings on recruiting and retaining blood donors in a lecture to about 45 people.
“We transfuse about 14 million units of blood each year in the U.S.,” France said. “If we look forward, the demand for this blood is growing, and we’re going to need more blood as we go forward.”
Given the need for blood and the sheer volume that comes in every year, France emphasized the importance of strategies that help retain blood donors
“Approximately one-third of all blood collected is coming from first-time donors,” France said. “Only two percent of first-time donors will become committed donors. What is it that’s deterring initial and repeat donation?”
Some of the methods he has used to help inform potential or previous donors include a new coping brochure, which outlines the details of blood donations and methods to prevent the feeling of fainting or light-headedness.
France said he plans to keep researching blood donors by focusing next on the continuing study of post-donation telephone interviews and their effects on retention.
During the event, OU officials unveiled a portrait of France that will hang in Alden Library with portraits of other distinguished professors.
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“It’s the work of a lot of our distinguished professors, and it is working to improve the human condition,” said OU President Roderick McDavis. “The Distinguished Professor Award is one way we recognize faculty members who reflect our highest level of excellence.”
France’s research has brought in approximately $7 million in grants over more than 20 years at OU, according to a previous Post article.
“I wasn’t at all surprised at the award because he brings in a ton of grants and is great at helping students get published,” said Brett Ankawi, a third-year graduate student studying clinical psychology. “He found a way to make it interesting even for some of the students who weren’t interested.”
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Some students said France is especially good at turning everyday meetings into helpful experiences.
“He provides great feedback and creates a lot of teachable and educational moments,” said Kristen Fox, a third-year graduate student studying clinical psychology.
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