Be a Designated HERO
First Designated HERO Of The Year
Chosen at Monmouth University

(West Long Branch, NJ) – January 27, 2010. Monmouth University, in partnership with the HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers®, named student John Tronolone of Wall, NJ, as their first Designated HERO on January 27, 2010. John was pleasantly surprised when his name was called during a special ceremony held at Monmouth. To recognize John’s commitment as a designated driver, his name and picture were featured on HERO Campaign billboards located on NJ Turnpike, exit 8, and Monmouth Road in Ocean, NJ. In addition, he received a Monmouth Mall gift card and a HERO Campaign t-shirt. Pasquale Morea received the second place award and Caroline Fix received the third place award. An honorable mention was given to Salim Sabbagh.

To choose a Designated HERO, students nominated their friends or themselves through an email contest run by
Monmouth University Substance Awareness Coordinator, Suanne Schaad, Students had to submit their best designated driver stories, from which the HERO Campaign Committee chose the winners. Judy Onday, who nominated John for the award, said “He always offers himself as a designated driver without hesitation. Many times he
has driven ridiculous distances to help a friend come home safely. He is always there for us, no questions asked.”

Bill Elliott, HERO Campaign founder and father of John Elliott who tragically lost his life to a drunk driver in 2000, attended the award ceremony and said, “John would be very proud and humble if he was here. He knew how to go out and have fun but he was more committed to helping other people. The reason this campaign works is because of you in hopes you can change the world. Today, Monmouth took a first step in changing the world, by being the first university in the nation to choose the First Designated HERO. The Designated HERO program celebrates those who are committed to getting their friends and family home safely by being sober designated drivers.”

For more information on how your school can choose a Designated HERO, contact info@herocampaign.org or 609-272-0100

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