Focus on Staff With Dale McMullen, Hoxworth Blood Center

December is always a festive month, and this year it’s even more festive than usual for Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati. Hoxworth, founded in December 1938 by Cincinnati surgeon Paul Hoxworth, MD, is celebrating 75 Years of Saving Lives with a midday event on Fountain Square Wednesday, Dec. 11.

Dale McMullen hasn’t been around for all 75 of those years, but he’s been at Hoxworth in a variety of roles for over four decades. He took time out from his duties this week to answer our questions.

When did you start at Hoxworth, and what positions have you held?

I began my career in March of 1973 and started as a lab technician in the Cross Match Laboratory. In the mid 1970s, we increased our mobile blood drive operations and I moved to a donor consultant position. Later I worked as assistant director and director for donor resources and development.  

What is your current position, and what are your duties?

I am currently in the Quality Assurance Department and have responsibilities for the donor services and donor recruitment areas of the blood center.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Working with PEOPLE to solve problems.

How has Hoxworth Blood Center changed during your time there?

In the early 1970s some of our products were still pooled in glass containers. There were about three tests for blood safety and we collected about 25,000 units of blood each year. The blood bank today with automation and the collection of specific types has made us a transfusion medicine center of excellence, collecting 95,000 units per year.

Are you a blood donor? If so, can you estimate how much blood you've given in your lifetime?

I am a blood donor and have given approximately 5 gallons of blood.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spare time is always centered around my family.