In a recent episode of Port St. Lucie Talks, hosted by Dash Hernandez, Dana Trabulsy, the Member of the Florida House of Representatives for District 84, shared her insightful perspective on leadership, public service, and the pressing issues facing both St. Lucie County and the state of Florida. The conversation delved into her personal journey, legislative successes, and her unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for her constituents.
A Career Rooted in Philanthropy and Service
Dana Trabulsy opened the interview by reflecting on her background in marketing and communications. Having spent over a decade with Kveli Enterprises, the franchisee of Panera Bread, Dana’s philanthropic drive was significantly shaped during this time. She was deeply involved in community initiatives, which helped ignite her passion for public service and led her to transition into politics.
She credits her upbringing, where her parents were heavily involved in the community, as the foundation for her commitment to civic activities. Her professional experiences reinforced her desire to give back, leading her to take on the challenge of running for public office. Now, as a State Representative, she continues to prioritize philanthropy in her role, advocating for the people of St. Lucie County and beyond.
Championing Education: The New World’s Reading Initiative
One of Trabulsy’s proudest accomplishments is her work in education, specifically the New World’s Reading Initiative. As she explained, only 38% of Florida’s third-graders are reading at grade level—a statistic she is determined to change. The initiative, which provides free home-delivered books in English, Spanish, and Creole to young students, has been a game-changer in fostering literacy across the state.
In addition to this, Dana has worked on legislation to reinstate science-based reading instruction, ensuring that children develop foundational reading skills early on. She is particularly focused on replacing ineffective teaching methods with phonics, ensuring students don’t fall behind in critical areas.
Tackling Mental Health and Expanding Resources
Mental health advocacy is another area in which Dana Trabulsy has made significant strides. In the interview, she spoke passionately about the challenges the state faces, particularly the lack of mental health providers. In response, she helped pass the Live Healthy bill, designed to expand education and access to mental health services across Florida.
Trabulsy emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially for children in schools. She believes that the state must continue to build a robust support system to help individuals and families in need, from students to adults facing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
A Personal Mission: HIV Research and The John W. Ray Act
Dana’s commitment to public service is personal. She shared the emotional story of her brother, who passed away from AIDS in 1995. In his memory, she has made it her mission to push for advancements in HIV research and prevention. For the past four years, Dana has secured $1 million annually for HIV research through the University of Miami.
Furthermore, she worked with Representative Franklin to pass the John W. Ray Act, allowing over-the-counter access to PEP (post-exposure prophylactic) medication for HIV. This groundbreaking law is expected to save lives by making critical medication more accessible, particularly in high-risk areas like St. Lucie County.
Fostering Community Engagement and Addressing Local Needs
Throughout the interview, Trabulsy underscored the importance of staying connected with her constituents. “You have to show up for the people who showed up for you,” she remarked, highlighting her approach to serving the community. Whether it’s engaging with local leaders or meeting with constituents directly, Dana is deeply committed to understanding and addressing their needs.
One notable achievement discussed during the episode was her collaboration with the St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners. Together, they passed a local bill that capped hospital charges for inmates to 110% of the Medicare rate, saving the county millions of dollars each year. This practical solution is a prime example of how Trabulsy works with local officials to bring tangible benefits to the community.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Growth and Future Goals
As St. Lucie County continues to experience rapid growth, Dana Trabulsy expressed concern about balancing development with environmental sustainability. She emphasized the importance of protecting agricultural land and supporting Florida’s farmers and ranchers, who play a vital role in the state’s economy.
Looking ahead, Dana’s top priority remains focused on responsible growth, ensuring that future development doesn’t compromise Florida’s natural resources or its agricultural heritage. She is determined to continue working on behalf of her district, listening to the community, and addressing their evolving needs.
An Inspiration for Future Public Servants
Towards the end of the interview, Dana Trabulsy offered advice for those considering a career in public service. For her, the key to success is timing and commitment. She explained how she waited until her children were grown before pursuing public office, enabling her to dedicate the time and energy required for the role.
Dana’s message was clear: public service is for anyone willing to give their time and talents to their community. Whether it’s as an elected official or through civic engagement, there are countless ways to make a difference.
Conclusion: A Leader for St. Lucie County’s Future
Dana Trabulsy’s interview on Port St. Lucie Talks showcased her dedication to her constituents and her passion for improving Florida’s future. From education to mental health, and from HIV prevention to community engagement, Dana has proven herself to be a tireless advocate for the people of St. Lucie County. Her work continues to inspire others to get involved and contribute to the betterment of the community.
Stay tuned for more insightful interviews and updates on Port St. Lucie Talks!
