Annual Conference & Business Meeting
Friday, December 12, 2025
Theme: Safer Communities through Instructor Education
Join driver educators, driving schools, and leaders in driver education at our annual conference in Columbia to learn about new products, services, and organizations dedicated to keeping our nation's drivers safe.
Award Nominations
Do you know one worthy of Commercial School of the Year, Commercial Teacher of the Year, High School Teacher of the Year, or the Harry Stille Award? To nominate someone for an award, email a synopsis to Joe Sabbadino at jandjsabb@att.net.
Open Officer & Board Positions
There are several SCDTSEA officer and board positions to be voted on at this year's conference. Please be sure the person is willing to be considered for the position, then email the person's synopsis to Joe Sabbadino at jandjsabb@att.net.
Poster Contest
SC Trucking Association will sponsor the poster contest with a theme of "Driving Under the Influence." Prize for first place is $300, second place is $200, and third place is $100. Learn more.
Criminal Justice Academy
5400 Broad River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212
Online registrations closes at midnight on Monday, December 2.
Speakers
We are looking for dynamic speakers to give us interesting information or tools to enhance driver education programs. We appreciate those who volunteer to speak at our conference at no cost, keeping registration fees low for our teachers.
Contact us today
Sponsors
Without our sponsors we would have a hard time putting on our annual conference. Sponsorship levels start at $250 with additional opportunities available. Gain great exposure for your business; sponsor the conference today!
Contact us today
Exhibitors
As an exhibitor, you get a 10' x 10' booth space (with 8-foot table, table linen and skirting, two chairs, and wastebasket), and lunch for two people. Additional meal tickets can be purchased during registration. Please let us know if you need access to electrical outlets.
Sponsors & Exhibitors
South Carolina Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association (SCDTSEA) supports and advances traffic safety and education among commercial and public driving schools.
SCDTSEA is a state association comprised of representatives from public and private driver education. SCDTSEA was established as part of the American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association (ADTSEA) and is an affiliate member of the ADTSEA.
Since 1936, our members have worked together to promote solutions and laws aimed at enhancing driver safety and education. These efforts include:
- serving as spokesperson for driver and traffic safety educators
- advancing the cause of driver and traffic safety education for all individuals
- stimulating the general interest of driver and traffic safety education
- promoting professional excellence with the basic importance of the safety educator in the learning process
- protecting the rights of safety educators and advance their interests and welfare
Resources
South Carolina Resources
National Resources
- AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
- ADTSEA
- ADTSEA Resources Page
- Distracted Driving Help
- Driving School Association of the Americas
- How Texting and Driving Statistics Affect Your Insurance Premium
- National Safety Council
- National Transportation Safety Board
- NCDTSEA
- NHTSA
- NHTSA—Distracted Driving
- Operation Lifesaver, Inc.
- Rates for Insurance - Distracted Driving Information
- Texting & Driving: How Dangerous Is It?
- US DOT Federal Highway Administration
- Wikipedia: Texting While Driving
Presentations from the Last Conference
Annual Awards
SCDTSEA provides several different awards at its Annual Business Meeting and Conference. We encourage you to consider nominating someone you believe deserves and qualifies for one of the following awards:
Poster Contest
SCDTSEA hosts annual poster contests where schools are allowed to submit up to eight student-made posters at their conference, focusing on the designated theme of the year. Monetary awards are given to the top winners, and teacher presence is required for eligibility.
2024 Theme: Put Your Phone Away, Focus On Driving
First place receives $150, second place $75, and third $50. The winning teacher also receives $25.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2022 - Elle Gafken, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2021 - Matthew Troyer, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2020 - Owen Nigh, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2019 - Claire Swartz, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2018 - Jocelyn Brazeal, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2017 - Emily Smith, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2016 - Hannah Lovegrove, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2015 - Judah Smith, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2014 - Elizabeth West, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2013 - Desir'e Wood, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2012 - Amanda Sweeting, Sabbadino Driving School
The Achiever of the Year Award
The Achiever of the Year Award recognizes those who have made exceptional contributions, are dedicated to excellence, and have had a significant impact on traffic safety and education.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2015 - Terecia Wilson
- 1979 - Mildred Ward
- 1978 - Joe D. Sabbadino
The Award of Appreciation
The Award of Appreciation recognizes the remarkable dedication and service of individuals who have made significant contributions and unwavering support for traffic safety and education.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Baron Turner, Fairfield High School
- 2019 - Sherry Bachmann, Precious Cargo Driving School
- 2018 - Colonel Kevin Shwedo, Director SCDMV
- 2018 - Julie Sabbadino
- 2018 - Lester Johnson
The Commercial Driving School of the Year Award
The Commercial Driving School of the Year Award recognizes South Carolina-based commercial driving schools that operate with one to four certified driver training teachers for their good standing with SCDTSEA, regional, or national driver training organizations, support ongoing staff training, participate in state or national driver education committees or boards, and engage in legislative activities for driver education in South Carolina.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Lake Murray Driving School
- 2023 - Precious Cargo Driving School
- 2022 - A & R Driving School
- 2021 - Alert Driver Training
- 2020 - Coaches Driving School
- 2019 - Alert Driver Training
- 2018 - Mr. Mike's Driving School
- 2017 - Auto-Safe Driving School
- 2016 - Union County Driver Academy
- 2015 - Budget Driving School
- 2014 - Hayden's Driving Academy
- 2013 - 123 Driving Academy
- 2012 - Price Driving School
- 2011 - Adams Driving Academy
- 2010 - Baldwin Driving School
The Commercial Driving Teacher of the Year Award
The Commercial Driving Teacher of the Year Award honors those who have showed exemplary course of instruction, have a great reputation of being an excellent driving instructor, and have been a longstanding member of SCDTSEA.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Gregg Griggs, Sandhill Driving Academy
- 2023 - Mike Waters, Cruise Control Driving School
- 2022 - Kimberly Kier, Championship Driving School
- 2021 - Stanley Huntley, S & A Driving Academy
- 2020 - Lance Collins, Auto-Safe Driving School
- 2019 - Susan Baldwin, Baldwin Driver Training
- 2018 - Tina Dodd, Drive Alert Academy
- 2017 - Barry Avant, Coaches Driving Academy
- 2016 - Ed Ables, Ables Driving School
- 2015 - Joe Sabbadino, Sabbadino Driving School
- 2014 - Dan Marsceau, Auto-Safe Driving School
- 2013 - John Pappas
- 2012 - Andrew Johnson
- 2021 - Bob Hartness
- 2020 - Lord Ashley
The Driver Education Teacher of the Year Award
The Driver Education Teacher of the Year Award recognizes excellence in driver education teachers who are dedicated to traffic safety, innovative teaching, and commitment to producing skilled, responsible drivers.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Michael Steward, Lower Richmmond High School
- 2023 - Alisa Jones, South Florence High School
- 2022 - George Wallace, Lee Central High School
- 2021 - Warren R. Pemberton, Lewisville High School
- 2020 - Ron Lanham, Beaufort High School
- 2019 - Robert Suggs, West Florence High School
- 2018 - Donald Addis, Whitemire High School
- 2017 - Kevin Carr, Champman High School
- 2016 - Don Cribbs, Latta High School
- 2015 - Robbie Wiggins, Clover High School
- 2014 - Joe Graham, Wilson High School
- 2013 - Brian Hennecy
- 2012 - Gerald Lloyd
- 2011 - Mike Blackmon
- 2010 - Chadwick Saris
- 2009 - Fred Edwards
- 2008 - Joe Watson
- 1991 - Joe D. Sabbadino
- 1990 - Ed Moorer
- 1986 - Joe D. Sabbadino
- 1983 - Emmett Hutto
- 1981 - Joe D. Sabbadino
- 1980 - Joe W. Grant, Jr.
- 1979 - Charles F. Brigman
- 1978 - James C. Saylors, Jr.
- 1977 - James T. McCray
- 1976 - Virgina Hunter
- 1975 - Mildred Ward
- 1974 - Dr. Albert Neal
- 1973 - Emmett Hutto
- 1972 - Jethro R. McCain
- 1971 - Richard E. Bernstein
- 1970 - Glenn Sanders
The Friends of Driver & Traffic Safety Education Award
The Friends of Driver & Traffic Safety Education Award recognizes those who have provided outstanding support and advocacy, contributing significantly to advancing and promoting driver and traffic safety education.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Tiffany Wright, AAA
- 2022 - Major Florence McCants
- 2021 - Janice Cowen, Operation Lifesaver
- 2021 - Dr. Albert Neal
- 2018 - Rick Todd, SCTA
- 2016 - Candace Rosado, SCDMV Inspector III
- 2015 - Sarah Clem, State Farm Safety Projects
- 2011 - Dr. Christine Beyer
- 2010 - Dr. James "Skip" Strainer
- 2008 - Teresa Wilson/li>
The Harry Stille Award
The Harry Stille Award recognizes those with years of outstanding contributions and distinguished service to our profession.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Jerry Lloyd
- 2023 - Robbie Wiggins
- 2022 - Dr. Albert Neal
- 2021 - Phil Strickland
- 2020 - Joe D. Sabbadino
The Lifetime Service in Driver and Traffic Safety Education Award
The Lifetime Service in Driver and Traffic Safety Education Award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing driver and traffic safety education, demonstrating leadership, innovation, and significant impact on their community and profession.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2022 - Andy Pilgrim
- 2021 - Joe D. Sabbadino
- 2016 - Jim Collins
- 2013 - Dr. Albert Neal
- 2012 - Dr. Harry Stille
The Outstanding Dedication and Service to SCDTSEA Award
The Outstanding Leadership in Driver and Traffic Safety Award acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing and promoting driver and traffic safety.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2022 - David Smith, Pelion High School
- 2021 - David Smith, Pelion High School
- 2020 - Janice Cowen, Operation Lifesaver
- 2018 - Richard Chidester, AAA
- 2016 - Andy Pilgrim, Traffic Safety Education Foundation
- 2015 - Carol Hardin, Nation Driver Education Speaker
- 2014 - Joe D. Sabbadino
- 2013 - Andrew Johnson
- 2012 - Steve Phillips
The Outstanding Service in Safety Award
The Outstanding Service in Safety Award recognizes individuals with exemplary dedication and contributions to promoting safety through their service and commitment to drivers' safety.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2021 - Lindsey Stribble
- 1983 - Virginia Hunter and Mildred Ward
- 1981 - Charles Brigman, Lieutenant Clarence I. Coleman, Joe W. Grant, Jr., Emmett Hutto, and Dr. Harry Stille
- 1980 - Virginia Hunter and James C. Saylors, Jr.
- 1979 - Jordan, Jethro McCain, James T. McCray, O Cliff Nix, Joe D. Sabbadino, Dudley Triplett, and Mildred Ward
The SCDTSEA Award
The SCDTSEA Award recognizes individuals for their involvement and leadership in SCDTSEA, their outstanding safety education programs, and their exemplary professionalism in teaching and living.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Rebecca Grubs
- 2023 - David Smith, Pelion High School
- 2022 - Sherry Bachmann, Precious Cargo Driving School
- 2021 - Andrew Johnson, A&R Driving School
- 2020 - Tommy Price
- 2019 - Jerry Lloyd
- 2018 - Janice Cowen, Operation Lifesaver
- 2016 - Joe D. Sabbadino
- 2015 - David Smith, Mid Carolina High School
- 2014 - Dr. Harry Stille
The Safety Administrator of the Year Award
The Safety Administrator of the Year Award recognizes administrators with at least two years of experience who contribute to driver education programs, enhance professionalism through shared expertise, increase student enrollment, improve curriculum and teacher performance, and maintain positive community and dealer relations while supporting SCDTSEA and ADTSEA objectives.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Phil Riley, SC Department of Public Safety Director
- 2021 - Florence McCants, Criminal Justice Academy
- 2020 - Nicole McGarity, AAA Carolinas
- 2017 - Cindy Utton, SCDMV Master Examiner
- 2015 - Dr. Christine Beyer, Driver Ed Consultant to the SC Department of Educatiion
- 2014 - Colonel Kevin Shwedo, SCDMV Executive Director
- 2013 - Ray Cooper
- 2011 - Brent Stone
- 2010 - Jon Burge
- 1983 - Dr. Albert Neal
- 1981 - Dr. Harry Stille
- 1980 - Mildred Ward
- 1979 - Dr. W. Lonnie Bell
- 1978 - Thomas M. Holimon
The Traffic Safety Officer of the Year Award
The Traffic Safety Officer of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding officer who has shown remarkable commitment and accomplishments in promoting traffic safety by significantly enhancing road safety and community well-being.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 2024 - Sergeant Matt Southern
- 2022 - Officer Brian T. Lee
- 2021 - Ernest Powell
- 2019 - Mark Keel
- 2018 - Lance Corporal Joe Hovis
- 2017 - Candace Rosado
- 2016 - Corporal Bill Rhyne
- 2015 - Terry Talyor
- 2014 - Captain Jim Crawford
- 2013 - Captain Karl McClary
- 2010 - Colonel F. Kenny Lancaster, Jr.
- 2010 - Lieutenant Clendenan
- 1981 - Sergeant John Kirland
- 1980 - Lieutenant Earnest Rumler
- 1979 - Lieutenant George Ed Barton
- 1978 - Lieutenant Clarence Coleman
The Years of Dedication to Driver Education Award
The Years of Dedication to Driver Education Award honors those who have shown unparalleled dedication and contributions to the field of driver education over their career, embodying commitment, expertise, and a profound impact on educating and shaping responsible drivers.
PAST RECIPIENTS
- 1981 - Dr. Albert Neal
- 1981 - Joe D. Sabbadino
Board of Directors
Robert Suggs
President
Jarrod Brooks
President-Elect
David Smith
Past President
Joe Sabbadino
Treasurer
Jerry Lloyd
Secretary
Lance Collins
Website Editor
Andrew Johnson
Historian
Dr. Albert Neal
Chaplain
Rebecca Grubbs
Board Member
Tony Littles
Board Member
Robbie Wiggins
Board Member