Gerri Jeffries, Northeast District’s recently retired communications manager and coalition coordinator, exemplifies the dedication, compassion and leadership this award is designed to honor. Across 26 years with MoDOT, Jeffries approached everyday safety with a singular conviction: if one life can be saved, every effort is worthwhile.
She treated safety messages as lifelines—clear, personable and actionable. Jeffries strengthened and expanded partnerships with community organizations, schools, law enforcement, and local leaders, building a resilient network committed to protecting Missourians. She has an incredible gift for translating technical safety data into messages that feel personal, relatable, and easy for families and drivers to understand. Under her guidance, core campaigns—seat belt use, impaired driving prevention, work zone safety, and distracted driving awareness—grew in reach and consistency. She viewed limited budgets as a challenge for innovation, deploying cost-effective outreach that resonated in both rural and urban communities. Her stewardship expanded the Driver Education Program and energized community events with new, engaging, interactive materials.
In 2025, Jeffries earned the Director’s Safety Award at the MoDOT Innovations Challenge for Safety for Courtside Connections, a school-centered initiative she helped create that continues to deliver a measurable, lasting impact. Beyond official responsibilities— often beyond regular hours—Jeffries consistently stepped in to fill volunteer gaps, mentor colleagues, and elevate others' efforts. She rarely sought recognition, preferring to stand behind the camera, yet her influence was visible in stronger collaborations and increased coalition participation.
For her leadership, her passion for public service, and her profound impact on highway and traffic safety in the Northeast District, we are proud to award Gerri the Show-Me Zero Award.