Brian Heaton

Content Mgt Programmer/Analyst, Web and New Media

For over 31 years Brian Heaton has been serving the computer and web media needs for Missouri State University.  When not at work, you can find him serving his community in multiple ways.  A once casual occurrence is now a passion for Brian as he provides the ‘gift of life’ to those unknown.  “I have always viewed donating blood as a good way to give back to the community.”  After donating whole blood a few times, he started donating platelets, which are used by those going through cancer treatment, having surgery or a transplant procedure. Not everyone can tolerate the needle stick or a 1.5 hour donation stint, but Brian has undergone this type of donation over 220 times.

From 1997 through 2013 he averaged more than 13 donation visits per year yielding just over 500 blood product units (whole blood, platelets, plasma), with a peak four-year total of 79 visits and 219 units (23+ gallons).  Brian was inducted into the Community Blood Center of the Ozark’s (CBCO) Donor Hall of Fame in 2007 and recently reached 600 units (75 gallons) of lifetime blood product donated.

In addition to his CBCO donations and being of active assistance to his elderly neighbor, Brian also officiates collegiate, high school and club volleyball and holds National Referee certifications for PAVO (collegiate officials) and USA Volleyball.  Each competition level has different training and mentoring programs. Brian volunteers his time and efforts to create instructional materials for new officials, present on training topics, conduct on-court rating sessions and mentor new officials. “Having well trained and certified game officials is important because, as the saying goes, without referees it’s just recess!”

We are delighted to recognize Brian Heaton as the May Public Affairs Staff Spotlight for his significant community contributions and ethical leadership!