Chatham Valedictorian Awarded For Founding Blood Drive Club

CHATHAM, NJ — A Chatham High School student has been recognized for founding the school district's blood drive club.

Peter Wang, a Chatham senior and valedictorian, was awarded a $500 Red Cross scholarship for founding the CHS Red Cross Club, serving as president of the club, and going above and beyond his responsibilities.

"It is truly an honor to be able to present the Red Cross scholarship to Peter Wang. He has demonstrated leadership and vision that has made a positive impact within our school and community," Elsie DaRocha, CHS Special Education teacher and advisor to the Red Cross Club, said.

This school year, the Chatham High School Red Cross Club held two blood drives: one in November and one in February. They collected 76 units of blood in total, which could save up to 228 lives.

The Red Cross provided Wang with a scholarship as a result of the drives.

A Red Cross Club is a branch of a local Red Cross region or a Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) station where students can serve the community alongside their friends. Along with training and leadership development opportunities, members can choose mission-related activities in their community while providing Red Cross lifesaving services.

Wang intends to attend Princeton University in the fall after graduating, where he plans to major in biology.

"I have no doubt that Peter's selfless endeavors will continue for years to come," DaRocha said.