Program Coordinator – Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition and Florida SADD

My job responsibilities: I oversee the Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition’s strategic plan and objectives, as set forth by the Florida Department of Transportation. I lead the Coalition in planning and implementing projects and programs that seek to reduce/eliminate teen driver crashes, fatalities, and serious injuries with the goal being to achieve zero road deaths, or “Vision Zero”. For Florida SADD, I work with the National SADD office to push out programs and activities that empower, engage, mobilize, and change behaviors of teens in Florida and encourage them to avoid destructive decisions.

Why I joined the Coalition: I joined the Coalition after I was personally affected by a distracted driver. I wanted to get involved and ensure that we prevented and eliminated these behaviors from occurring on our roads.

Professional accomplishments: I am proud to have served on the National Safety Council’s LifeSavers Planning Group for the topic of distracted driving.

Hobbies or areas of interest outside of work: I love to spend time with my Golden Retriever, Jake – he’s the best boy! I also love anything outdoors or on a boat.

What was your favorite song when you were a teenager? Anything by Nirvana, Sublime, or Red Hot Chili Peppers.

What make and model was your first car? 1992 Toyota Celica (Color: Red) – this car had a sunroof and pop-up headlights!

What has changed most about driving from the time you were a teenager to now? Obviously, DISTRACTIONS! But, also MAPS! When I learned to drive, you had to print out the MapQuest directions prior to going anywhere… Now, you have the GPS that screams turn-by-turn directions at you whenever you want. Just remember to program it BEFORE you leave the driveway! 😉

The one tip I would give any new teen driver would be: Never trust a driver who has a turn signal on as “turning”. Defensive and attentive driving is the way to prevent collisions!