A local police lieutenant who spends a few nights and weekends teaching people to safely ride motorcycles was honored earlier this month by the California Highway Patrol for her “exceptional performance and outstanding service to the California Motorcyclist Safety Program.”
Two weeks ago, Lt. Colleen Sepulveda of the Santa Cruz Police Department drove to Sacramento for a training. After her arrival, she learned that she was one of 30 instructors presented with a certificate.
“I was speechless,” said Sepulveda, who’s been teaching locally for the program offered through Cabrillo College Extension for nearly 7 years. She’s been a serious motorcycle rider for about 9 years now.
The program, which is run by the CHP, has more than 600 instructors throughout the state.
Sepulveda’s honor came after CHP officials reviewed surveys received from students.
“I thought it was pretty cool,” said the woman who considers motorcycle safety an important aspect to the community. “The students don’t have to fill out the surveys, which they must also put a stamp on to send to the ‘ChiPies.’ That means something.”
Local program coordinator Dog Green wasn’t surprised to hear about Sepulveda’s award.
“It’s well deserved”, he said. “I’m just thrilled. She fills in for me practically anytime I need her. She’s really, really gung-ho about the program.”
Learn more about the Motorcycle Safety Program at http://www.ca-msp.org/. Sign up for the Cabrillo extension course by calling 479-6331.
