Why are you passionate about empowering young people to be safer drivers and passengers?

When I was a teenager, about to get my Learner’s Permit, a tragic collision happened in a nearby town. There were so many bad decisions made. The car was filled with seven teenagers, thirteen to seventeen years old, some had been drinking, nobody was wearing a seatbelt, and they were speeding. And then, the driver hit a moving train. There were no skid marks and all seven of the occupants were ejected from the car. Five of them died instantly, one held on for a day before dying from head injuries, and the seventh passenger (who shared the same first name as me and was my age) survived after sustaining serious injuries. Learning about that night has always been a part of how I view driving – a privilege with important responsibilities.

What draws you to the Impact Teen Drivers Mission?

We do it right. Too many programs have used graphic images and gruesome stories to tell the story of distracted driving – including the one I was given as a teen. Instead, we use tested methods to empower teens to make good decisions by sharing powerful personal stories and tools to reduce their risks as a driver or a passenger. I appreciate our proven tools and methods.

Why do you enjoy being part of Impact Teen Drivers?

I have always enjoyed educating and helping people make informed decisions to reduce risks in their lives. This work can help drivers enjoy the benefits of driving while reducing the deaths and injuries that can come with it.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to roller skate, dance to live music, put together community events, and love-on the Great Dane in my life.

What three adjectives would you use to describe yourself?

Bold, adventurous, and ambitious