Injury Prevention Coordinator – HCA Florida Ocala Hospital

My job responsibilities: Injury prevention and education for our service area’s top mechanisms of injury.

Why I joined the Coalition: Motor vehicle crashes are our second highest type of trauma alerts. My county in particular ranks higher than the age-adjusted rates as compared to the State of Florida average. I want to help make an impact in lowering these rates, especially in teens and young adult drivers.

Professional Accomplishments: I’ve worked in public health and healthcare for over twenty years. While at the Marion County Health Department I led a team for two-time successful Project Public Health Ready verifications. I also earned two Model Practice awards with NACCHO. I was one of two employees at the Florida Department of Health selected to participate in CDC’s Avian Influenza exercises in 2007 and 2008. In NYS, I was recognized by the commissioner of health for the State of NY for Hurricane Sandy response and Ebola preparedness and response. I’ve also worked as a travel agent, security guard, teacher and health department administrator. I’m hoping my varied experience and background in public health will be an asset to this team.

Hobbies or areas of interest outside of work: I enjoy trips to the beach and playing with our three dogs.

What was your favorite song when you were a teenager? Don’t Stop Believin’

What make and model was your first car? Eagle Talon

What has changed most about driving from the time you were a teenager to now? Cell phones! Plus all of the electronic safety features we now have on vehicles.

The one tip I would give any new teen driver would be: Breathe! Stay focused at all times and drive defensively, not offensively!