The final meeting of The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation for 2025 board kicked off with the announcement that Mary Uhlig, who serves as Executive Director of The Foundation as well as Executive Director of Community Affairs for BioBridge Global, will be retiring at the end of the year.
Taking on her role as Executive Director of The Foundation will be Jay Podjenski, Senior Director, Donor Marketing & Community Engagement, South Texas Blood & Tissue.
“I can say it’s just been an absolute honor and privilege to work with each member of the board and to support the work to advance our lifesaving mission,” Mary said. “I know that with the Foundation team led by Jay and with the dedication of our volunteer leaders, the Foundation will continue to grow in the positive impact it has on our organization and our community.”
Jay has an extensive background and connections in the community, and he said he looks forward to connecting with board members over the coming weeks.
Mobile Leukapheresis Center update
The board also heard details about the recent first cell collection in the first-of-its-kind Mobile Leukapheresis Center.
Proceeds from this year’s Red & White Ball will go toward a second of the unique vehicles, nicknamed the Big Blue Bus.
The most important thing the mobile center does is extend access to advanced therapies to those without, explained Dr. Vivienne Marshall, Executive Director, Starting Materials and Clinical Services.
She added that BBG Advanced Therapies has partnered with one of the world’s largest clinical research organizations to leverage the capacity provided by the new mobile leukapheresis center.
Simon Hart, the first donor, spoke about his experience, praising the nursing team for its dedication and the importance of donation.
Hart has donated whole blood for more than 16 years and continues a legacy of giving left by his father Mark, who recently passed away from cancer.
“I will sit in that chair and gladly give of my time and of my body to give care for the people who need it,” Simon said. “I do this in his name. And for those of us who are no longer with us…I give in their name…there will always be someone else to save.”
Red & White Ball update
Red & White Ball Chairs Nicole and CJ Czelusta encouraged board members and their friends to participate in the live auction bidding. The Red & White Ball team has worked tirelessly to create an experience for guests, from preparing a special Japanese-themed menu, floral design and a taiko performance.
“Advanced therapies repair the body at its deepest levels and restore lives with new strength and beating,” she said, “We wanted to design the evening to celebrate the beauty of restoration.”
As of Nov. 3, the ball has raised $657,000, she said. Champions have been rallying nonstop for the cause, raising more than $90,000 collectively, Nicole said.
