March 27, 2025– Springfield, Massachusetts – The Basketball Hall of Fame was jam-packed on Wednesday, March 26, for Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni’s Stop the Swerve event, bringing together students, parents, and community leaders to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. A highlight of the event was revealing the poster and public service announcement (PSA) contest winners, whose creative work will help spread this critical message.

All Hampden County high school students were encouraged to create a 30-second video PSA or a poster highlighting the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.

The PSA contest showcased students’ storytelling skills, with “Don’t Be Drawn to Drink” by Dierdre Matthews and Ella Frost of Pope Francis Preparatory School taking first place. Second place in the PSA category went to Kendall Allen, Karissa Coppolo, Lily Gurung and Daniel Valentin of East Longmeadow High School for, “I’m Fine. It’s a Quick Drive.” Coming in third place was “Better Late Than Never” by Daminik Kliuchnik of Agawam High School.

In the poster contest, Elizabeth Sloboda of Pope Francis Preparatory School took first place with, “Think Outside the Box.” Madalyn Torres of Longmeadow High School took second with “Foggy Roads,” and Ainsley Petell of White Oak School took third with “Your Path Your Choice.”

“We are incredibly proud of these students for using their creativity to make a difference,” said Gulluni. “Their work will help keep our roads safer by encouraging their peers to make responsible choices.”

Winning entries receive funding to support student-led clubs or initiatives by purchasing IT-related materials or promoting healthy choices and student safety. First place winners received $2,500, second place $1,000, and third place $500.

The first place PSA, “Don’t Be Drawn to Drink,” will be broadcast on 22 News, the CW Springfield and wwlp.com, while the winning poster design, “Think Outside the Box,” will also be on display throughout Hampden County.

Attendees experienced impaired driving simulation goggles while driving pedal carts across the Hall of Fame court and heard powerful stories from individuals affected by reckless driving. Law enforcement officials, safety advocates and local community leaders were on hand to discuss the real-life consequences of driving under the influence and how to make responsible choices behind the wheel.

And, one lucky high school student won free driving school, sponsored by the Hampden District Attorney’s Office.

The Stop the Swerve initiative continues to engage young drivers through education and advocacy, reinforcing the importance of staying focused and sober behind the wheel.