After 30 years, MSF national director retires
David Surgenor, who dedicated nearly 30 years to enhancing motorcyclist safety, has retired from his position as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation National Director of Quality and Outcomes. Surgenor, who is based in Pennsylvania, helped shape rider training programs across the country and remains highly respected among his peers.
“Dave’s contributions were significant and long-lasting for motorcycling and rider education,” said MSF Vice President of Training Systems Dr. Ray Ochs. “His exuberance for motorcycling was surpassed only by his passion for quality. Dave was a tremendous resource for all levels of stakeholders with an interest in improving one’s quality of life through motorcycling. His approachable demeanor, sense of humor and direct style endeared him to countless people. He will be missed as we wish him a joyous retirement.”
Surgenor became a Motorcycle Safety Foundation instructor for the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program in 1989. He earned his chief instructor certification in 1994 while working for Millersville University. He then joined the MSF national staff in 1999 and became the state coordinator of the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program. In 2014, Surgenor was promoted to National Manager of MSF Training Systems. The following year he was promoted again, to National Director of Quality and Outcomes.
“When I met Dave for his first interview, I knew we had our guy. He talked about the opportunities to serve Pennsylvania’s new and current riders by partnering with PennDOT, and he had many ideas to improve the state program,” said Tim Buche, president and CEO of the MSF. “And Dave never hesitated to assist others. He was always available to help state program coordinators, RiderCoaches, RiderCoach Trainers, rider groups and others.”
Under Surgenor’s leadership, the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program won the national “Outstanding State Program Award” 13 times. In 2006, he was awarded the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s “Award of Excellence.” Three years later, Surgenor was presented with “The Chairperson’s Award” by the State Motorcycle Safety Administrators Association. The SMSA executive committee stated that besides serving as an outstanding state coordinator for Pennsylvania, Surgenor also mentored staff in other states and training programs across the nation, helping to develop professional workshops and learning centers.
“The MSF has been the one of the best things that ever happened to me,” Surgenor said. “My colleagues have always been there for me — just like family. It’s been a great and sometimes challenging ride, but it has been a ride beyond my wildest dreams.” Surgenor will remain in Pennsylvania, close to family and friends.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation promotes safety through rider training and education, operator licensing tests and public information programs. The MSF works with the federal government, state agencies, the military and others to offer training for all skill levels so riders can enjoy a lifetime of safe, responsible motorcycling. Standards established by the MSF have been recognized worldwide since 1973.
The MSF is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by BMW, BRP, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Indian Motorcycle, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha. For safety information or to enroll in the RiderCourse nearest you, visit msf-usa.org or call (800) 446-9227.
