Tiana Tozer ’90 has personally taken the initiative to educate hundreds of students, parents, and teachers through the MADD program at student leadership conferences, judicial conferences, pre-prom and Red Ribbon Week programs. Her topics include alcoholism/drug abuse, change, leadership, inspiration and motivation.

Each year, the Portland Chapter of the UOAA recognizes an outstanding alumnae/alumnus in the Portland area with the Alumni Spotlight Award. Tiana Tozer was presented with the Spotlight Award on September 19, 2008 at the University of Oregon’s White Stag Building in Portland.

Ms. Tozer shares her personal story of being run over by an intoxicated driver in her sophomore year of college. After four years of struggling to walk, she learned a wheelchair would become a permanent part of her life. Her education and motivational programs for youth and adults address misconceptions about people with disabilities as well as making responsible choices around drinking and driving. Ms. Tozer has also worked with the Portland Habilitation Center, a non-profit organization with the mission to help people with disabilities secure employment. To nominate a deserving Portland alum for the 2009 Alumni Spotlight Award, contact Assistant Director for Alumni Relations at emboyd@uoregon.edu.