Sandra Morrison, Public Information Officer, HART
BIRTHPLACE: Queens, New York
EDUCATION: Graduated from Hofstra University with a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism/Sociology and a Minor in Spanish & Kingsborough Community College, A.A. in Journalism/English
PROFESSIONAL HISTORY: HART is the 1st public transit agency for which I have worked.
2012–2013: American College of Physician Executive (ACPE) – Marketing Communications Specialist
2010-2012: Hoyu America Co. – Marketing & Communications Manager
2005-2010: Bay News 9/Bay News 9 en Español
YEARS WORKING IN TRANSIT INDUSTRY: Since 2003
YEARS WORKING WITH HART: 2.5 years
BIGGEST SURPRISE IN MARKETING TRANSIT:
Everyone understands each other’s challenges, regardless of the size of the transit system. Everyone is always willing to help when you ask them for advice. It is wonderful to know there’s a support group willing to lend a helping hand at any moment. I’ve noticed in my two and half years at HART that most folks working in public transportation are passionate about what they do and genuinely want to serve the community with a smile on their faces.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN MARKETING TRANSIT:
Trying to convince those folks that have not ridden public transit to try it and what it’s all about. In addition, getting our elected officials to try riding the bus at least once. Since no amount of marketing or public relations can replace the on board experience of riding the local transit system. By riding local transit elected officials get the opportunity to experience for themselves what our riders experience firsthand.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: I’m a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The whole family volunteers at our church Grace Family Church at 2nd Saturday. This is a monthly outreach opportunity to serve the Tampa Bay Community. You get to serve in a variety of areas from in-house on the GFC campus, to local ministry and helping hands at the children’s homes in Tampa.
PERSONAL BACKGROUND: I have been married to my awesome husband Scott about 2 years. Our lovely daughter, Kayla is 14 years-old and loves playing soccer. Our family has one cute tuxedo cat. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, going to the beach, running, trying out new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.
CHILDHOOD AMBITION: Since I was about 6 years old, I knew I wanted to be a T.V. news reporter. While growing up in Queens, I would sit with my father around 5:00 p.m. and watch an English newscast followed by Spanish newscast. It was a tradition for us.
INSPIRATION: My parents and my family. They always work hard and never give up. I’m passionate about what I do. I’m committed to working at HART because I consider it more than just a job, rather a lifestyle of serving others and being part of the community.
FAVORITE BOOK: Bible
FAVORITE COLOR: Pink & Green, and Navy
FAVORITE CANDY: Green Apple Jolly Rancher and Twizzlers
ANY OTHER RESPONSE/QUESTION THAT YOU’D LIKE TO RESPOND TO: My thoughts are I will continue to make a mark on this world, my mantra being, “Don’t let the easy breezy style fool you. There’s no excuses. “