BISMARCK, N.D. (Vision Zero) – Two North Dakota high school students recently showcased their roles in Vision Zero Schools at the Lifesavers Conference, held March 9–11, 2025, in Long Beach, Calif. Recognized as the largest gathering of roadway safety professionals in the United States, the conference provides information on the latest highway safety research, best practices and cutting-edge initiatives to combat risky driving behavior to save lives.
LaMoure Public School sophomore Cole Just and senior Ann Muggli from Oakes High School were selected to present during the Student Changemakers session. Their participation stemmed from their leadership roles in the Vision Zero Schools program, which empowers students to actively engage in traffic safety advocacy. Just’s presentation focused on student advocacy and the pivotal role young individuals play in promoting road safety, while Muggli addressed opportunities to enhance traffic safety in rural schools, highlighting the unique challenges and solutions pertinent to these communities.
“The students involved with Vision Zero Schools are making a real impact regarding traffic safety in their communities,” said Ryan Gellner, Vision Zero Outreach Program Manager. “Cole and Ann did a fantastic job showcasing what we are doing in North Dakota, and they have some exciting ideas to bring back to their schools.”
In addition to the student presentations, Vision Zero Outreach Coordinator Leah Kelm presented on Engaging Communities. Her session underscored the collaborative efforts of the Vision Zero Outreach Program across North Dakota, emphasizing partnerships with schools, local organizations and law enforcement to foster safer roadways statewide.
The Lifesavers Conference annually brings together a diverse group of professionals, including local, tribal, state and federal highway safety officials; law enforcement officers; public health professionals; and safety advocates. The 2025 conference continued this tradition, offering approximately 70 workshops across 10 educational tracks, keynote sessions and an extensive exhibit hall.
The Vision Zero initiative aims to cultivate a culture of shared responsibility behind the wheel, striving for the ultimate goal of zero motor vehicle fatalities and serious injuries on the North Dakota roads. The active involvement of students like Just and Muggli represents the program’s commitment to engaging the next generation in this vital mission.
Learn more about the Vision Zero strategy and its traffic safety campaigns at VisionZero.ND.gov.
Feature photo R-L: LaMoure Public School sophomore Cole Just and senior Ann Muggli from Oakes High School.