Charles R. Drew

Dr. Charles R. Drew was a member of our Illustrious Fraternity who developed techniques for blood storage. Known today as "the father of blood banking," Drew was a key pioneer in discovering ways to store and transport blood. His methods were adopted by the American Red Cross, which he later become the first director of the same organization. He protested against the practice of racial segregation in the donation of blood from donors of different races since it lacked scientific foundation. He was the first African American surgeon to serve as an examiner on the American Board of Surgery.