The Award-Winning Advocate: Kate Gibson
What makes San Mateo County’s 2017 Bike Commuter of the Year for 2017 Kate Gibson so special?
Activism
In her role as TDM and communications specialist, Kate is able to share her knowledge and experiences to help other commuters consider or improve their bike commute. She even recorded a video to help new commuters see what a bike+Caltrain commute.
Kate also is responsible for the Stanford transportation department's participation in new employee orientations. She presents information about bike commuting options and answers commute questions, including bike-related questions, at the weekly orientation event.
Commitment to Bike Safety
After a close call a few years back, which included a fall from her bike, Kate had to overcome her hesitation to get back in the saddle. The experience has encouraged her to take steps to ride even more carefully and defensively and to expect the unexpected.
She wears a helmet for every ride and uses a front light and rear reflector on her bike. She has put careful thought into making herself more visible on the road, wearing reflective clothing and clip-on lights.
Attitude
Kate brings a fun and positive enthusiasm to promoting cycling and other sustainable alternatives. Perhaps a good example is her Halloween costume one year, when she dressed up as Rosie the Riveter. It was the perfect match for her, because she consistently conveys the "We can do it!" attitude, which she has proven in her own journey with bike commuting.
Take a page out of Kate’s book, and join the Commute Club.