Charles Drew

Charles Drew earned his bachelor's degree from Amherst in 1926, but lacked the financial means to pursue his dream of attending medical school. Instead, he worked as a biology instructor and coach at Morgan College, now known as Morgan State University, in Baltimore for two years. In 1928, he applied to medical schools and was accepted into McGill University in Montreal, Canada.

At McGill, Drew quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional student. He received a prize in neuroanatomy and became a member of Alpha Omega Alpha, a prestigious medical honor society. Graduating in 1933, he finished second in his class and earned both a Doctor of Medicine and a Master of Surgery degree.

Dr. Charles R. Drew, a trailblazing African American medical researcher, made significant advancements in the storage and processing of blood for transfusions. During World War II, he also oversaw two of the largest blood banks.