Charles Drew was a prominent African American physician, surgeon, and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of blood banking during the early 20th century. Born in 1904 in Washington, D.C., Drew was a gifted student and earned a bachelor's degree from Amherst College in 1926. He went on to attend McGill University in Montreal, Canada, where he earned both a master's degree and a Doctor of Medicine degree.

Drew became an expert in the field of blood transfusions and blood storage, and during World War II, he was appointed by the American Red Cross to oversee the first large-scale blood bank operation. Drew's research and innovative techniques for storing and transfusing blood helped save countless lives of soldiers wounded in battle.

Despite his groundbreaking work, Drew faced racial discrimination in the medical field and was often denied opportunities for advancement based on his race. He became an advocate for equal treatment and opportunities for African American physicians and researchers.

Tragically, Charles Drew's life was cut short in a car accident in 1950 at the age of 45. However, his legacy lives on as a pioneer in the field of medicine and a symbol of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Today, Drew is remembered as a trailblazer in the medical community and a role model for aspiring Black health professionals.