New Student Organization at USD School of Health Sciences Works to Boost Stem Cell Donor Sign-Ups
The USD chapter of the National Marrow Donor Program has already expanded its members to 74 strong and held its first campus event this month. The NMDP, formerly known as Be the Match, is a national organization that helps save the lives of patients with blood cancers and disorders through cell therapy.
Nolan Thramer, a health sciences major and president of the USD chapter, said the idea of bringing a chapter to USD took shape after he attended a national leadership conference for his fraternity, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, in January. Sigma Alpha Epsilon is one of the largest fraternity donors to the marrow registry nationally, and Thramer felt USD students could make a similar difference.
“Our goal is to help in any way we can,” Thramer said. “If more people on campus know that joining the donor registry can be as simple as a cheek swab, it could give more patients a chance at the cell transplant they need.”
Working alongside faculty advisor Kerri Muehler, a health sciences instructor, students quickly brought the chapter to life. Vice President Josh Erickson, a sophomore finance major, said the group has been presenting to classes, visiting Greek life houses and tabling across campus to encourage students to register.
The group also collaborates with other campus organizations like Dakotathon and Coyotes Against Cancer. USD NMDP will participate in a campus-wide cancer awareness event called “Coyote Cure Challenge” to encourage students to join the donor registry.
“What stands out most about the founders of this group—and the students who have joined them—is their initiative and genuine commitment to a meaningful cause,” said Muehler. “Their vision has strengthened connections across USD’s campus and with the National Marrow Donor Program. Their leadership has shaped the identity of this new organization and laid a strong foundation for its long-term success.”
Students interested in joining or registering can sign up through the NMDP registry or the organization’s USD Campus Groups page to receive a swab kit by mail.
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