Dr. Ferenchak is focused on developing sustainable and resilient transportation systems primarily through improved health and safety outcomes. His current research focuses on multimodal aspects of emerging transportation technologies and their impact on health and safety. Dr. Ferenchak teaches highway and traffic engineering on the undergraduate and graduate level. He is active in domestic and international societies including the Transportation Research Board and Institute of Transportation Engineers. Dr. Ferenchak is the center director of the Center for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety, a tier-1 University Transportation Center funded by US DOT.

Valerie Hermanson, AICP, begins her role as a Public Works Strategic Program Manager for the City of Albuquerque, leading the City's Vision Zero program to combat traffic deaths, active transportation planning, and reimagining transportation systems to increase mobility options and make our roads safer for all roadway users. Born and raised in New Mexico, Valerie has worked in multiple cities including Albuquerque, Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, CA. She brings 13+ years of experience with an extensive background and skillset in transportation planning and policy and active transportation plans/programs. She is passionate about shaping transportation by creating equitable, sustainable, resilient, and human-oriented streets and places by implementing plans, policies, and programs that make mobility options safe, convenient, and affordable for everyone. Valerie holds a Master's degree in Community and Regional Planning and Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of New Mexico.