New State Coordinators Tapped to Lead Operation Lifesaver Programs in the Dakotas

Operation Lifesaver Inc. (OLI) President and CEO Joyce Rose announced July 31 that new state coordinators have been appointed in North Dakota and South Dakota.

Peter Pomonis will lead North Dakota Operation Lifesaver, and Diane Hall will lead the South Dakota state program.

Pomonis, who holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of North Dakota, will manage the Operation Lifesaver program along with other duties in his position as home and community coordinator for the North Dakota Safety Council. Pomonis succeeds Serena Schmit, marketing coordinator for the Safety Council, who is taking on new responsibilities.

“With the expansion of the oil and gas industry in North Dakota, safety at highway-rail grade crossings is more important than ever,” Rose said. “During her tenure as ND OL state coordinator, Serena Schmit expanded the visibility of North Dakota’s OL program with the public and the trucking community. We look forward to working with Peter to continue North Dakota Operation Lifesaver’s focus on public safety education outreach,” she concluded.

Hall has worked with the South Dakota Safety Council since 2007, managing its membership, traffic and first aid programs. She also worked several years as a contract instructor for traffic education for the council. Hall holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Sioux Falls.

“I’m excited about this opportunity,” Hall said. “I look forward to working with others to make a difference in railway safety.”