Page 13 - DDS July 2017 Newsletter The Scoop

coming together to enhance the integrity of the program. The agency has launched numerous
initiatives to assist with the rapid growth of the CDL Industry. We have leveraged technology
with use of eSkills tablets, improved our road skills testing capacity, shortened re-testing time
frames, expanded our CDL Third Party Testing Program to allow companies (i.e. UPS, MARTA,
C.R. England, etc.) to test the general public. We also give an incentive pay for state CDL
Examiners to improve retention. Despite CDL holders accounting for less than 5% of our
customer base, we continue to make creative solutions to enhance highway safety and support
economic development. Because of the work that we do, our roads are safer and our customers
can become gainfully employed. This one makes me most proud! #OneTeamOneMission

What one word or phrase best describes your outlook on life?

“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” Margaret Thatcher

What hobbies or interests do you enjoy away from the office?

I like to try new places and things. In Atlanta, it’s extremely easy to become a Foodie! I enjoy
going to trendy restaurants. Even though I am a native, there are always new trendy restaurants
to try. I also enjoy going to plays, museums, and theatres. Each year at Christmas, I enjoy going
to see the “Nutcracker” and “A Christmas Story.” I’d love to experience “Hamilton” one day soon.

If you could compete in an Olympic event, what would that event be and why?

It would be in Track & Field, the 4x1 Relay! I am a former track athlete and I love competing in
team sports but I understand the importance of contributing as an individual to make the team
better. When I competed in high school in the 4x1 event, I was the 2nd leg of the race. Our team
made it to the State Relays. While I never competed in the Olympics, I worked as a dispatcher
for Military Bus Drivers for the Atlanta 1996 Olympics!

What is your favorite dessert or snack?

Kemp’s Butter Pecan Yogurt with strawberry and caramel syrups added. It almost tastes like a
banana split! Unfortunately, sweets are my weakness.

What was the defining moment in your life?

The birth of my son, Trenton! He’s now 16-yrs old. Raising him as a single Mom has not been
easy and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! All of the struggles and sacrifices that we both have
made will continue to make us stronger. I earned my Master’s Degree when he was in the first
grade. The birth of Trenton gave me life and motivated me to not accept failure as an option.

If you could have lunch with anyone living today, who would you choose to dine with?