Currently, Tess Rowland serves as the Community Traffic Safety Liaison for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office where she develops innovative traffic safety programming that integrates awareness, education, and data-driven approaches to address the root causes of traffic fatalities in the Houston, Texas community.
Previously, Ms. Rowland served as an Emmy-Nominated TV Journalist in Panama City Beach, Florida. It was during her daily commute in May 2021 that Rowland experienced the devastating impact of impaired driving firsthand. In a tragic crash involving a wrong-way drunk driver, Rowland was injured, sparking her unwavering dedication to traffic safety advocacy. Despite facing significant challenges during her recovery journey, including undergoing seven surgeries, Rowland remained steadfast in her mission. She collaborated with the Bay County Sheriff’s Office to establish the first-ever Regional DUI Task Force and later served as the National President of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) from 2022 to 2024. In these roles, Rowland spearheaded initiatives for stricter laws and heightened awareness surrounding impaired driving.
Rowland is also a published author of a children’s book, Astro’s Adventures Exploring Road Safety, which educates youth about road safety and making safe choices.