Rich began his EMS career in Honolulu nearly 20 years ago. Last year, he returned to his roots when he relocated to Western Wisconsin.
Rich is passionate about mobile healthcare and has embraced the future by spending significant amounts of time mentoring and teaching newer EMS providers.
Rich joined the Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance team less than two years ago. However, he has already had an outsized positive impact due to his many years of Paramedic experience in a larger market. His deep experience coupled with his friendly and helpful personality have greatly helped with the onboarding of new employees and EMS providers.
In his free time, Rich loves the outdoors. He is an avid fisherman and hunter.
Chris has served his community on the Huron Valley Ambulance team since 2016. Chris is considered to be a “unicorn” in EMS as he thrives as a Paramedic in an emergency setting, as well as when acting as a Community Paramedic or Critical Care Paramedic. In a single shift, he may be resuscitating a cardiac arrest, transferring a critically ill patient to a tertiary care center, then providing in-home care to a chronically ill individual.
In addition to his clinical skills, Chris is known for his kind and compassionate personality, which has earned him a reputation among patients and coworkers alike. He consistently goes above and beyond for his patients. Whether it’s a witty joke to lighten the mood or taking the time to educate patients about their conditions, Chris always works in his patients’ best interest. Chris is also known amongst his coworkers as someone who cares about teaching everyone he works with the tangible skills necessary to become a good medic.
His colleagues note that Chris is very knowledgeable and is the best example of what a Paramedic should be.
We are fortunate to have Chris on our team, as he is an excellent example of how to serve as a patient-centered paramedic. Thank you for all you do, Chris; we’re proud to recognize you as a Star of Life!
Emily joined LifeCare Ambulance in 2010 and, since that time, has made a significant positive impact on our organization.
In addition to her roles as a Senior Paramedic and part-time Road Supervisor, she also acts as a Field Training Officer ensuring new employees are equipped with the skills they need to be quality EMS providers.
Emily is known amongst her coworkers for having an infectious positive attitude. She dedicates her time to training others, improving working conditions, and building morale. Emily is also a strong patient advocate. She speaks to her patients and their family members with empathy. She provides skilled, quality care to community members in every encounter.
Recently, Emily has further increased her involvement in Emergent Health Partners / LifeCare Ambulance. For instance, she is currently enrolled in the EMS Instructor-Coordinator class. She was recognized by the Michigan Department of Health & Services for excellence in EMS and outstanding service. Her positive attitude is infectious to both her colleagues and co-responding departments.
Thank you for all you do for your coworkers, patients, and community, Emily! LifeCare Ambulance is proud to recognize you as a Star of Life.
Konrad Trzepizur embarked on his EMS career in 2011. He transitioned into his role as an EMT in New York City when he joined Northwell Health in 2013, where he continued to progress.
Over the past seven years, he has been a model leader in his role as an EMT Supervisor at Lenox Hill Hospital. Konrad’s dedication to service and excellence set the tone for the department. His lead-by-example approach makes him highly respected among his fellow EMS leaders and staff. His passion for helping others is evident in his work ethic.
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Konrad was instrumental in ensuring operations continued running and that staff had everything needed to respond safely during the crisis.
In his free time, Konrad enjoys traveling the world. One of his most memorable trips to date was to Australia and New Zealand, where he immersed himself in the culture and cuisine. When not at work, he also enjoys gardening and day trading.
Konrad was selected this year because of his dedication and commitment to excellence. He continues to raise the bar and represents the best of the department and the EMS community.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Konrad as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Anita Torres has served as an EMS provider in New York City for 22 years. Her inspiration for becoming an EMT came as a child when she was engrossed watching the popular TV series Emergency!
Anita has always loved helping people. She is known for going above and beyond the call of duty for both her patients and coworkers. She volunteers to organize holiday and birthday celebrations, enlivening the atmosphere at CEMS.
During a behavioral health emergency call, Anita’s keen situational awareness ultimately led to a mother being reunited with her baby, who had been abducted and transported across several states.
Anita, a mother of 3, lives in Staten Island with her daughter, Rebecca, and grand dogs, Madison and Steve.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Anita as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Kevin Pantaleon started his career in EMS in 2016. He joined the team at Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services in 2019 after obtaining his Paramedic certification. His career with Northwell began during the COVID-19 pandemic where he worked countless hours providing exceptional care in the various communities greatly impacted by the pandemic. Kevin is also very involved in field training. He has been a preceptor and mentor to many Paramedic students. He takes pride in sculpting the minds of up-and-coming providers.
Kevin received a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology and is working towards his Masters in Emergency Management from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. His goal is to work in Homeland Security and bring his experience and expertise from EMS into that role.
Kevin was adopted from Ecuador and came to the US when he was two years old. While not providing care as a clinician, he enjoys fishing and traveling. One of his most memorable trips included a two-week trip through New York State visiting different national parks. Kevin is a champion for Diversity and Inclusion and an advocate for LGBTQ rights.
Kevin’s peers and students speak very highly of him and CEMS is very proud of his exemplary patient care and work ethic. Northwell Health is proud to honor Kevin as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Kenneth Ortiz Cortez was born in Puerto Rico and came to Brooklyn, New York when he was five years old. His family instilled in him the importance of serving others. The belief in the inherent value of all people, and that everyone is important and should be treated with courtesy and respect runs deep in him.
Kenneth admits that it took a little while for him to figure out that becoming an EMT was what he was destined to do. He knows that some feel that we all choose our own path, but he feels that EMS chose him. He found a home in EMS with like-minded people who all share a common goal of serving and helping others in need. He has worked at various EMS organizations in all of the boroughs of New York City, and we are so fortunate that he landed here at Northwell Health Staten Island University Hospital.
Kenny is the embodiment of EMS. He goes above and beyond both while on the ambulance caring for patients and when off duty. He brings the department together whether it is setting up practices and coaching the department softball team or participating and cheering on his teammates in the various Northwell Health events. He is a well-respected member of the department whose contributions go well beyond being a great partner offering the best in pre-hospital care.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Kenneth as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life.
Nicole Hart’s EMS journey landed her at LifeNet in Stillwater, Oklahoma in January of 2020. She quickly drew the respect of her coworkers and developed a camaraderie with others as our nation struggled through the most significant pandemic in a century. Her work with new employees, and EMTs transitioning into medics, made Nicole an excellent candidate to serve as Field Training Officer. After achieving that goal, she successfully competed to become an Operations Supervisor for the area. In addition to her workplace efforts, Nicole became an adjunct faculty member of an initial EMS education program in the state.
These leadership efforts were recognized in the comments of Nicole’s peers as they nominated her to be our 2023 Star of Life. One said, “She goes above and beyond to make the workplace better for everyone and takes a no-nonsense approach to her leadership.” Another comment read, “Nicole is great at teaching new employees and encouraging others to do the same.” The sentiment of many was eloquently captured by one nomination that read simply, “She works (hard) and is always so nice to everyone!”
That recognized approach, and Nicole’s steadfast commitment to quality and learning, recently led Nicole to accept a position as Clinical Services Manager for the region. We are excited to see where she will take our EMS providers with her fresh education opportunities and Quality Improvement initiatives. It should be clear that Nicole represents the best in EMS, and we are proud to have her represent LifeNet.
Tracey Gray serves as the Director of Education at Jan-Care Ambulance Inc., where she is at the forefront of training over 400 emergency services personnel. Under her guidance, Jan-Care has seen innovations in hybrid EMS education, making it accessible, accredited, and always relevant. As she says, “I take pride in developing personnel competently to be ready to work once certified.”
Tracey’s commitment to EMS is rooted in her service to the nation. Beginning her journey at the Army Medical Department, Department of Combat Medic Training in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, she achieved distinction by graduating from the U.S. Army’s pioneering non-segregated combat medic training. Her 26 years of simultaneous service in the Army Reserve and civilian EMS culminated in her retirement as a soldier, but her spirit to serve the community as an EMS leader never waned.
Achieving the rank of 1SG E-8 in the Army, Tracey held profound responsibilities in a Ground Ambulance Unit. Her military training, encompassing combat medic to military-specific medical evacuation procedures, combined with her role as an Army Basic Instructor and Army Reserve Career Counselor, showcases a breadth of leadership and expertise. These accomplishments are underscored by a host of military achievements including the Army Commendation Medal with V Device and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
In the civilian realm, Tracey’s commitment to EMS is unyielding. Having attained her National Registry Paramedic certification 28 years ago, and later her Critical Care Paramedic in West Virginia, she is the clinical helm for critical care at Jan-Care, supervising 30 Critical Care Paramedics. Beyond the ambulance, Tracey has served as a firefighter with the Ansted Certified Fire Department for over a decade, and specializes in Vertical and Swiftwater Rescues within New River National Park.
As an educator, Tracey’s aim is clear: cultivate tomorrow’s leaders. She ardently believes in removing barriers for students and ensuring when they graduate, they are fully equipped for the job. Her mottos, “Train as we fight!” and “BE, KNOW, DO,” encapsulate her philosophy of genuine mentorship and active skill-building. This passion for education is further evidenced by her myriad teaching certifications and her active participation in curriculum development for the West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services.
With an educational background that boasts a Certificate in Paramedic, an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership, Tracey is a beacon of knowledge and capability. Yet, at the heart of it all, she remains a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, cherishing her family and the outdoors.
For all her accomplishments, Tracey Gray remains dedicated to the ethos of service, education, and paving the way for future EMS leaders. She is truly deserving of the 2023 Stars of Life award.
Aaron Graves is a go-getter. From his first day at LifeNet, he has always gone above and beyond for his patients and for his coworkers.
Before joining LifeNet, Aaron served in the Army Reserves for six years. Once he graduated college and was engaged to his now wife, he began his career at LifeNet working in dispatch. While serving as a communications professional, he decided to go to EMT school where he experienced his first clinical shift on the ambulance. At that point, Aaron discovered his passion for working in the field.
Aaron worked as an EMT for two years before he became a Paramedic and served for three more years, which was a requirement for working on a helicopter. Aaron saw that he could make a career out of working at LifeNet and “was in everyone’s ear” leading up to his qualification for a position with LifeNet’s Air program. The summer of 2024 will mark eight years of Aaron serving LifeNet patients in almost every capacity possible including dispatcher, EMT, Ground Medic, Field Training Officer, Flight Medic, and—most recently—Air Programs Base Supervisor.
Aaron enjoys the excitement and the community that surrounds him at LifeNet, as every day brings something new, and every call has its own set of challenges. He is described by his team members as, “the epitome of who you want” for someone in this profession. One needs to be patient-centered, a self-starter, and highly motivated to excel in EMS and Aaron possesses all those traits and more.
Jess Gibbs, Director of Specialty Care Services, said of Aaron, “He displays an extraordinary level of empathy, compassion, and enthusiasm for his job. He is always looking for ways to improve, which is evidenced through his continued successes within LifeNet.” Aaron seeks out higher learning opportunities, self-betterment, and continued growth. He promotes education through evidence-based practice while teaching at local EMT and Paramedic programs. Aaron is a humble leader who exemplifies all that LifeNet represents.
On behalf of the LifeNet Air division, we are extremely proud to recognize Aaron’s accomplishments and welcome the opportunity to honor him as a 2023 Star of Life.
David Ebert launched his career in EMS when he became an EMT in 2010. His early years consisted of him working in very busy areas in New York City and the Bronx. Soon after obtaining his Paramedic certification, he joined our team at Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services in 2014. He started out as a 911 Paramedic working in New York City, then made his way into our interfacility transport division in 2017. He soon realized that he had a passion for teaching, so prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, he became an integral part of our training department at CEMS.
While in the training department, David tirelessly provided EMS education, hands-on skills training, and assessments. He evaluated countless new employees in the department both in the classroom setting and on the road. He is a huge advocate for change and always brings forward ideas for new techniques and processes to aid in education and ultimately improve patient care. David has also served on several committees within the department including the Crisis Incident Stress Management team, the Workplace Culture Committee, and the Research Committee. He also contributed to a research initiative that was published in the Resuscitation journal.
One of David Ebert’s proudest moments and latest accomplishments was when he successfully completed his Critical Care Paramedic course and was promoted to SkyHealth as a Flight Paramedic. He is hoping to get involved in training and education in this division as well. David also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Albany.
While not flying with SkyHealth or helping mold the new generation of EMS professionals, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kristen, and son, Cameron. He also enjoys playing golf.
David is a crucial part of our team. His value is recognized by his peers and leaders, and he is extremely deserving of this award for all of his hard work, positivity, and dedication to this profession and to CEMS. Northwell Health is proud to honor David as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Colin Driscoll is a Paramedic and field training officer in our Central Operations. Colleagues wrote in his Stars of Life nomination that, “Colin is always going above and beyond for his patients. He does it with every single patient, making sure that all of their clinical care is the best, their social and personal needs are met, and that they are getting the best help they can. He takes extra time to answer questions during and after the call about how things work with his partners. Whether it’s a question about a clinical condition or about protocols, his knowledge is always spot on and he’s always super helpful. He spends extra time with patients and their families at the hospital, helping with the transition of care and making sure they know what’s happening.”
Central Operations Manager Alex Barczak added, “I’m not surprised to see Colin being recognized by his peers. He is a skilled Paramedic and does all that he can to make sure his patients receive the best care. He puts the same effort into training the EMTs that are assigned to him, setting a great example for them and demonstrating the core values of our organization.”
When asked about being selected by his peers as a Star of Life, Colin said, “I appreciate my coworkers who voted for me to be here. EMS is a challenging career that requires dedicated providers. I’m just happy to have helped patients, trained new providers, and made a difference where I could.”
Outside of work, Colin enjoys spending time with family and cross-country running.
Samantha Disilvestro started her EMS career in 2013 as an EMT at a private ambulance service. Working alongside Paramedics, she discovered that the emergency “911” side of the field was only part of the picture. Her passion for interfacility mobile healthcare had begun. Samantha’s desire to learn to become a more skilled clinician drove her to enroll in nursing school, which she soon decided was not her path. In 2017, she enrolled in a Paramedic training program, and upon completion in 2018, applied for and obtained a position as a Paramedic at Northwell Health Staten Island University Hospital.
Samantha recognized immediately that she was an integral part of her patient’s medical team and not just a transportation provider. She quickly earned the respect of her EMS colleagues as well as the Hospital teams.
Her understanding of the importance of our role in the care of the patient extends beyond the calls she responds to. She also assists in the training of new and seasoned members of the department on all the equipment and policies. Samantha can always be counted on to step up for special projects and assignments and most recently became part of the Northwell EMS Honor Guard.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Samantha as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life.
Barbara has served in EMS for more than 25 years, so she is no stranger to this fast-paced world. She has worked for many different EMS organizations over the years ranging from for-profit, to hospital-based, to non-profit, but nothing quite fit like LifeNet.
Growing up, Barbara always knew that she wanted to work in the healthcare field. After starting as an EMT and then progressing to the Paramedic level, 25 years later she is loving her role in Malvern, Arkansas as an Operations Supervisor. Her wide range of experience from busy metropolitan systems to smaller more rural systems aids in her expertise when caring for her community.
Sadly, Barbara’s life has not been without personal tragedy. Her son was killed in a car accident in the service area in which she was working at the time. After taking a few months off, she decided that her son would not have wanted her to quit EMS as he was always very proud of the work she did for her community. Because of that loss, Barbara began looking for a company that provided the family atmosphere and culture that she so longed for. She found it at LifeNet.
Through the loss of her son, Barbara has been able to empathize with and understand more of what families go through when a loved one passes away. Her perspective on her job has grown, and she appreciates even more the precious nature of life. Each day, she fulfills her duties with dignity and grace in honor of her son and her patients.
Barbara takes care of her coworkers like they are her family. She says, “My door is always open. I want every crew member to know if they need me, I’m there.” She is known for baking for her crew members and making them feel valued whether on or off-shift. Her loving and comforting spirit is one of the many qualities that her crew members appreciate about Barbara.
Barbara is a model Star of Life as she is someone who loves what they do and goes beyond what is expected in service to patients and colleagues. LifeNet is proud to have Barbara Davis represent Arkansas and LifeNet as a 2023 Star.
Haley Chapko is a Paramedic and field training officer in MedStar’s North Operations.
Haley is a very hardworking member of the Medstar team. She puts in extra hours to help out with staffing levels, and always engages with her patients and their family members. Haley invests time in training colleagues by reviewing skills, running through scenarios, and just providing general advice. A colleague noted, “Haley is an all-around amazing provider and the first call I would make if my family member needed to be transported.”
North Operations Manager Jeremy Compau said, “I’m proud to work with Haley, and glad that she is part of our team. She is very deserving of recognition. She has endless energy for her patients and her partners. She is ready, willing, and able to help out with special projects in our service area. Her compassion, commitment, and dedication are inspiring.”
On being selected, Haley said, “I feel extremely honored. I am emotional about being nominated as a Star of Life, let alone being elected by my peers. I have been in the EMS field for 10 years, starting at my hometown ambulance service, then to another Genesee County agency, and came to Medstar six years ago. Here, I have grown to become a Paramedic, then a Field Training Officer, and am now the FTO coordinator. We have a great leadership and support staff with phenomenal clinicians, I feel privileged to be a part of the team.”
Away from work, Haley enjoys reading, music, arcades, fishing, and spending time with family, friends, and her two dogs.
Cierra joined Acadian Ambulance in February 2016 as an EMT. She attained her Paramedic certification in 2018 through the National EMS Academy, a sister company of Acadian Ambulance.
Cierra is a native of Bridge City, Texas, and currently serves the Orange County, Texas region. She is very reliable, professional in appearance and demeanor, and is just an all-around good representative of Acadian Ambulance.
Cierra’s passion for EMS and patient care is easy to spot. She is on a constant quest to broaden her knowledge. Most recently, she earned her CCT certification to better serve her patients and give them the best care possible.
Cierra strives every day to figure out what she can do better to be better for her patients and for herself. Her patient advocacy and hard work inspire others. No matter how difficult a situation can be sometimes, she always does what is right. Cierra also assists her coworkers in any way she can. Some of her coworkers even describe her as a walking protocol book.
Cierra’s genuine and optimistic demeanor was noted by many of the selection committee members. She engaged each of the panel members and displayed confidence and knowledge.
Cierra says, “It’s important to put yourself out there and treat everyone you meet like family. It is not just the treatments we perform that make them feel better, it’s the whole encounter.”
Logan Butts works out of Jefferson County, Texas, including the city of Beaumont. He joined Acadian Ambulance in February 2021. He began as a runner in the fleet department while he attended the National EMS Academy, a sister company of Acadian Ambulance, to attain his EMT certification.
Logan has received numerous compliments from patients he has treated, as well as their family members. He is meticulous in his unit’s appearance and ensures it is inventoried and stocked. He is described as fun to work with and is a resource to other employees, particularly new hires when they have questions about Acadian’s policies or procedures. He pushes the people he works with to improve their AMPS scores and to always do what is right.
Logan is an excellent representative of what we want all EMTs to be. He is also an adjunct EMT instructor at the National EMS Academy’s Beaumont campus.
Acadian Ambulance Director of Operations Porter Taylor said of Logan, “During his interview, he presented a can-do attitude and had an infectious smile. I was impressed with his commitment to being meticulous with his truck on a daily basis. He prides himself on having the cleanest truck in his area.”
Logan is a true patient advocate with a strong work ethic. He takes pride in his work and the organization he works for.
Paul began his career in EMS with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan, Inc. in 2009. He currently serves as a Station Manager within the Michigan leadership team.
Paul began his career as a Paramedic. He became a part of the Critical Care Team in 2010 and started on the flight team in 2012. He was Board Certified as a Flight Paramedic in 2013. Paul spent seven years on the rotor service and one year on fixed wing service, prior to his promotion to Warren Station Manager.
Paul has contributed greatly during his time at Superior. As a Station Manager, Paul was instrumental in fostering a strong working relationship with Superior’s NICU team partners. He worked to equip more ambulances across the Michigan fleet to accommodate NICU/PICU patients. He also provided outreach to the NICU departments, giving them training and guidance on transport-related concerns. Another area Paul has contributed to is the mentorship of the station manager group. Paul has personally taken on the responsibility of mentoring and guiding fellow station managers to help them excel.
Additionally, Paul consistently provides oversight and coordination for staff training. He has both developed and coordinated Superior’s compliance and skills training for staff, with a high rate of success. Paul is an active American Heart Association instructor within Superior. Not only does he teach courses for the staff, but he also provides instruction for the residency program at Beaumont Hospital-Farmington Hills where he teaches resident physicians CPR and ACLS.
Paul has been a part of the US Department of Health and Human Services National Disaster Medical System since 2013 and has worked with several other Michigan providers and providers from other states on his deployments over the years. He considers his time deployed in service to disaster zones across the country and participating in national security special events as very rewarding.
During Paul’s free time, he enjoys boating, snowboarding, mountain biking, camping, and CrossFit with his friends and family.
We are proud to call Paul Tank one of our own and recognize him as a 2023 Star of Life.
Jeffrey Wilken, CCEMT-P, Operations Manager for Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Indiana began his EMS career in 2010 as an EMT with a hospital-based county 911 service. During his time there, he earned his Paramedic certification in May of 2014.
After becoming a Paramedic, he set out to further his career and take advantage of better opportunities by taking a position on a 911 contract with Superior of Indiana. While working 911 was a special and rewarding experience, Jeffrey was looking to expand his knowledge of pre-hospital and inter-facility mobile healthcare. He excelled in his Critical Care Paramedic program and added that certification to his list of accomplishments.
Jeffrey’s love for treating patients in the emergency setting as well as the critical care transport setting was extremely rewarding. However, he still wanted to do more for both his patients and fellow EMS providers.
“Jeffrey was the station manager for our Valparaiso station when I first met him. He was loved by his fellow EMTs and paramedics, he was always available and a true employee advocate. When I was looking for an Operations Manager, I was awe-struck by his compassion, skills, and outgoing personality and knew immediately he would be an asset to the leadership team,” wrote his nominator for Stars of Life.
In his role as Operations Manager, he has continued to sharpen his leadership skills by studying leadership strategies and attending lectures and conferences on the topic. His leadership style closely relates to the ideas of reality-based leadership and extreme ownership. Jeffrey is a graduate of the Ambulance Service Management course in Spring of 2022 and co-authored a research paper about the recruitment and retention of EMTs and Paramedics in our current culture titled Swipe Right to Apply.
Today, six station managers directly report to Jeffrey. He oversees 300 field employees in a diverse company with 911 contracts, inter-facility transfers, critical care services, industrial EMS, and an MIH program.
Jeffrey attributes his affinity for leadership to his past experiences as a youth sports coach and his ability to connect with his peers through understanding and empathy.
He is married to the love of his life, Ashleigh, and is the proud father to Holden and Wade. He is active in his community and his son’s school as well as coaching football.
Superior Ambulance of Indiana is a better company because of Jeffrey’s daily leadership and dedication.
Leonard Washington is a 9-year military veteran Combat Lifesaver who earned his associate’s degree from Rock Valley College. Leonard joined Superior’s Illinois Division in 2007 as an EMT, then earned his Paramedic certification in 2009 through the Swedish American program.
In 2010, he left Superior to run 911, but did not stay away long. In 2015, Leonard returned to Superior in the Rockford area and became a Critical Care Medic. When Superior opened its Wisconsin operations, he was one of the first to join.
Leonard has played a huge part in Superior’s success in Wisconsin and has moved all over the state to help start multiple stations in Green Bay, Kenosha, Madison, and finally, Janesville. Leonard is always available to help, and his peers and leaders look to him for guidance.
Leonard has a positive work ethic and is always willing to go above and beyond for his patients and coworkers.
