A Burlington County student was honored by the HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers as HERO of the Year at Stockton University.
Two Atlantic County students also were honored.
Colin Wojciechowski, a junior majoring in marine biology, was nominated for the award seven times by his peers.
The award recognizes a student who exemplifies exceptional dedication to preventing drunken driving by acting as a reliable designated driver.
The HERO Campaign was established by the family of Navy Ensign John Elliott of Egg Harbor Township, who was killed in a July 2000 collision with a drunken driver two months after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy.
"Winning this award means a lot to me since I have known people personally who have been victims of drunk drivers,” Wojciechowski said.
Holding a poster that read, “Be Like Colin. Be A Designated Driver,” he added: "It's crucial that we all commit to keeping our roads safe. If by being a designated driver, I can play a part in that, then I am all in."
Olivia Thoms, of Absecon, and Sarah Goodrich, of Hammonton, were first and second runners-up.
Wojciechowski will be featured on signage around Stockton University and on a prominent highway billboard along the Atlantic City Expressway.
This campaign aims to amplify the vital message of the HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers directly, encouraging others to follow in Wojciechowski's footsteps.
The HERO of the Year award is a keystone initiative of the HERO Campaign.
Stockton University has been partnered with the campaign since 2010, leading to the creation of meaningful programs like the HERO of the Year and the HERO Games, engaging students and the broader community in lifesaving dialogues and activities centered around responsible drinking and driving practices.
