On December 3, 2024, New York Blood Center (NYBC) launched the Heather McNamara Leadership and Blood Donation Advocacy Scholarship in honor of Heather McNamara’s life and legacy. This inaugural $2,500 scholarship aims to recognize individuals who, like Heather, have shown exceptional leadership and a commitment to advocating for blood donation. The scholarship serves as a tribute to Heather’s spirit of giving and her tireless efforts to raise awareness about the lifesaving power of blood donations.
Heather McNamara, who passed away in June at the age of 22, endured multiple cancer treatments and blood transfusions from a young age. Despite her struggles, she dedicated herself to helping others through volunteer work as an emergency medical technician, youth group leader, and advocate for blood donation. Heather became a spokesperson for NYBC, sharing her story and encouraging others to donate blood to save lives. While she was unable to donate blood herself due to her medical condition, she tirelessly advocated for others to do so.
The first recipient of the Heather McNamara Leadership and Blood Donation Advocacy Scholarship was Heather’s sister, Stephanie McNamara, who received the $2,500 award during a ceremony at the Islip Terrace Fire Department. Stephanie, a student at Long Island University, is applying to the College of Veterinary Medicine. In her acceptance speech, Stephanie said, “Heather loved being part of bigger causes. She, herself, was a bigger cause. Everything that she stood for — this scholarship and the New York Blood Center — enables people, saves lives, and enables people to make themselves save lives.”
The scholarship announcement came just a week before what would have been Heather’s 23rd birthday. Her mother, Tina McNamara, described Heather as “a little miracle” after a lifesaving surgery when she was just seven years old.
This scholarship will be awarded annually, with a second $2,500 scholarship to be presented in the spring of 2025 to a high school senior or undergraduate student who has demonstrated leadership and commitment to blood donation advocacy. The scholarship will be funded through public and private donations, ensuring that Heather’s legacy inspires future generations to give back and save lives.
Applications for the Heather McNamara Leadership and Blood Donation Advocacy Scholarship are now open, with a deadline of March 28, 2025. Students interested in applying must demonstrate leadership in blood donation advocacy and community service. The recipient will be announced at the NYBC Chairperson’s Recognition Event.
Heather McNamara’s impact will be felt for years to come. Your support can make a lifesaving difference and continue the mission Heather so passionately championed.