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Archives: Stars

Zoe Allison

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Sergeant Rachel “Zoe” Allison, Paramedic, Field Training Officer began her EMS career in 2020 at Metropolitan Emergency Medical Service (MEMS) as an Emergency Medical Technician during the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic and has since been promoted to the rank of Sergeant and serves as a Field Training Officer and Paramedic. Zoe graduated from the MEMS Paramedic Academy in 2023.

In her role as an FTO, her peers and supervisor stated that Zoe embodies MEMS’ vision and consistently goes above and beyond what is expected of her, as evidenced by her work and investment in her orientees. Zoe is described as intelligent, caring, competent, humble, and a true servant leader. She is often heard telling her EMT partners and orientees that they are clinicians, not just partners on ambulances for a given number of hours, instilling a sense of pride and belonging that allows them to have the opportunity to grow professionally.

Zoe is also an adjunct instructor at MEMS, providing excellent didactic and practical education modules for the agency’s 400+ personnel, as well as area firefighters and police officers.

In 2021, Zoe was awarded the MEMS Rookie of the Year award, recognizing her impact as an emerging EMS professional and her commitment to patient care. She currently serves on the MEMS Special Operations Response Team, fulfilling various operational responsibilities.

Zoe holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Central Arkansas and has recently returned to school as a post-baccalaureate student to complete her prerequisite requirements for medical school, with the goal of practicing Emergency Medicine and becoming a board-certified EMS Physician at a level 1 trauma center. As part of her return to the classroom, she is conducting research on EMS education methods at the EMT-B level with the goal of improving initial EMS education techniques. When she is not studying or shadowing in the hospital, she can be found working with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Street Medicine team, which provides care to the unhoused population in Little Rock who face significant barriers to healthcare access.

During her time off, Zoe enjoys cooking and collecting records with her husband, Brandon. She is an avid board gamer and hosts regular game nights with her friends. She and her husband also have two dogs, Moose and Goose, who keep their house messy and their time off full of exercise.

Metropolitan Emergency Medical Service is proud to recognize Zoe Allison as a Star of Life.

Caleb McDougal

Written by Kayla McKeever on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Southern Paramedic Service is proud to recognize Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician Caleb McDougal as a Star of Life. Caleb is being honored for his unwavering willingness to serve not only White River EMS, but also the broader communities of Newport and Jackson County, Arkansas. His admirable dedication shines through in every interaction, as he treats each patient with compassion, humility, and respect.

Caleb has mastered his EMT skills, making him a trusted partner to any Paramedic with whom he serves. His peers, fellow first responders, and hospital personnel alike commend his role as a true patient advocate and his consistent dedication to ensuring the highest standards of care. Caleb is regarded as a role model within the EMS community, setting an example of professionalism and service.

His commitment to the community was especially evident in March 2025 during the Newport/Diaz tornado. While others were called away, Caleb remained at the Newport base station to maintain critical EMS coverage and support. He stood ready to respond at a moment’s notice, ensuring uninterrupted prehospital care during a time of crisis. His calm presence and readiness to serve exemplified the spirit of EMS.

Southern Paramedic Service is proud to honor Caleb McDougal as a Star of Life in recognition of his skill, dedication, and compassion for the patients and communities he serves.

Shelby Hawkins

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Southern Paramedic Services is proud to recognize Shelby W. Hawkins as a Star of Life for his passion and commitment to serving communities across rural Arkansas. As an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, Shelby is driven by a deep sense of community service and a desire to support people in their most vulnerable moments.

Shelby has demonstrated extraordinary dedication during times of crisis, including his service in response to several natural disasters. He assisted during the devastating Wynne tornado and later served as EMS command during the Newport/Diaz tornado, coordinating efforts across multiple agencies to maximize lifesaving care while managing scarce local resources. He has also supported hurricane deployments along the nation’s borders and participated in inland rescue missions.

Colleagues describe Shelby as a steady leader who ensures that teamwork and patient care remain the focus, even under the most challenging circumstances. He is especially passionate about providing EMS education and outreach in underserved communities, recognizing the importance of strengthening resilience in rural areas where resources are limited.

Shelby’s dedication is also reflected in his educational and professional achievements. He graduated from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy at Black River Technical College with merit, holds a General Arkansas Law Enforcement Certification, and completed coursework at Arkansas State University toward a degree in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. In addition, he is an ASA Basic Life Support Instructor and a certified Stop the Bleed Instructor with the American College of Surgeons.

Through his service, leadership, and unwavering compassion, Shelby exemplifies the very best of EMS. Southern Paramedic Services is honored to recognize him as a Star of Life.

Adam Wagh

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Adam Wagh’s career reflects a rare combination of courage, innovation, and relentless dedication to emergency medical services. He began his EMS journey with Acadian Ambulance Service in Austin before joining San Marcos Hays County EMS as a 911 Paramedic. His calm skill under pressure earned him recognition, including the Life Saving Award from the San Marcos Police Department after providing critical care to two officers during an active shooter incident. That moment reinforced a lesson that still guides him today: every decision in EMS—clinical or operational—has the power to change a life.

After years in the field, Adam broadened his expertise through a software development program, gaining the technical foundation to translate complex data into tools that improve patient outcomes and organizational efficiency. He later joined Superior Mobile Health as a Paramedic, quickly distinguishing himself as a Field Training Officer and rising to Lead FTO. In this role, he pioneered quarterly training programs that elevated clinical readiness across the organization.

Promoted to On-Duty Supervisor and now Communications Center Manager, Adam has driven innovations that transformed operations. He authored new policies, pioneered zone-based and bucket dispatching, and designed real-time analytics dashboards that allow dispatchers and executives to monitor call volume, facility demand, and system readiness. His leadership has fostered accountability, efficiency, and patient-centered decision-making in one of the busiest EMS communications centers in Texas.

Today, while pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science, Adam continues to shape the future of EMS by blending clinical excellence, technical skill, and visionary leadership. Superior Mobile Health is proud to honor Adam Wagh as a 2025 Star of Life.

 

Jonathan Stocker

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jonathan “Jon” Stocker, Critical Care Paramedic at Superior Mobile Health, is honored as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life for exemplary patient care, professionalism, and leadership in education.

A seasoned Critical Care Paramedic, Mr. Stocker delivers high-acuity care with precision, confidence, and compassion. From routine IV/O₂/monitor transports to managing ventilated patients supported by multiple IV drips, he adapts seamlessly to complex, fast‑moving situations while maintaining an unwavering focus on safety, communication, and dignity for every patient.

Beyond clinical excellence, Mr. Stocker is a natural educator and mentor. He guides partners through complex interventions, supports ICU nurses during high‑acuity transfers, and reassures family members and bystanders with clear, calm explanations. His approachable teaching style builds trust, lifts team performance, and strengthens patient‑centered care across the continuum.

Colleagues look to Mr. Stocker for leadership under pressure. His steady presence and sound clinical judgment help teams navigate stressful scenarios and achieve positive outcomes. He leads by example—modeling professionalism, humility, and a commitment to doing what is best for patients and the community.

For his exceptional patient care, dedication to teaching and mentoring, and calm leadership in the most challenging circumstances, Jonathan “Jon” Stocker embodies the spirit of the Stars of Life program and the highest ideals of Emergency Medical Services.

Jennifer Aguilar

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jennifer Aguilar is a Paramedic and healthcare professional whose career spans more than a decade in EMS and seventeen years in pharmacy operations. She began her EMS service in the fast-paced Las Vegas 911 system, where for eight years she answered high-acuity calls and supported some of the most challenging responses in modern EMS. During the Route 91 Harvest Festival mass casualty incident—America’s deadliest mass shooting—she maintained calm, precision, and focus under extraordinary pressure. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped sustain emergency response operations while modeling resilience and steady leadership for her colleagues.

Since joining Superior Mobile Health EMS in January 2024, Aguilar has made an immediate impact. She earned Critical Care Transport certification and was quickly selected as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new clinicians with patience, clinical rigor, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Recognized for sound judgment and integrity, she was promoted to Operations Lead, where she oversees field supervisors and helps ensure safe, efficient, and clinically excellent care.

Aguilar brings the same discipline to her personal life that she demonstrates on duty. A two-time figure competition winner, she is also a devoted mother of four and proud grandmother of two. Her colleagues praise her calm presence, tireless work ethic, and uncompromising standards. More than a Paramedic, Jennifer Aguilar is a mentor, a leader, and an inspiration—embodying the spirit of the Star of Life.

Tyler Ford

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Since joining REACT Emergency Medical Services in 2018, Paramedic Tyler Ford has made an indelible impact on his colleagues, patients, and community. Tyler serves in many capacities at REACT, including as a frontline Paramedic and as a Single Paramedic Rover, where his adaptability and professionalism shine.

Tyler’s peers describe him as dependable, hardworking, and a role model for positive attitude and dedication. As one coworker shared, “He always shows the utmost care for his patients and is willing to lend a helping hand when needed.” Others note that he never complains, even on difficult days, and is always willing to do what needs to be done to ensure his patients receive the highest level of care.

Beyond his clinical excellence, Tyler is known for his humility, consistency, and willingness to support others. These qualities have made him a trusted partner in the field and an integral part of the REACT EMS team.

When not serving the citizens of REACT’s response area, Tyler enjoys time with his wife, Parker, and their young son, Brooks. A devoted family man, Tyler also finds joy in attending sporting events and cheering on his beloved Oklahoma Sooners and Oklahoma City Thunder.

REACT EMS is proud to recognize Tyler Ford as our 2025 Star of Life for his unwavering dedication, compassion, and service to the communities we serve.

Alisha Welicki

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Alisha Welicki has dedicated nearly two decades to Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Michigan, where she currently serves as a Paramedic and North Operations Manager. She began her EMS career in 2005 during Superior’s Michigan startup, completing the company’s second Emergency Medical Technician program. Over the years, she advanced through many roles, beginning as an EMT and later serving as a Station Manager while earning her Paramedic license in 2016.

Long before Superior launched a formal Field Training Officer program, Alisha recognized the importance of mentorship and spent nine years training and guiding new EMTs in the field. She remains committed to strengthening and expanding Superior’s FTO program to this day.

In 2020, Alisha stepped into the role of Operations Manager at a time of extraordinary challenge. While managing the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, she simultaneously led Superior through the acquisition of a major southeast Michigan ambulance service, prepared for a CAAS reaccreditation, and welcomed her first child. Despite these obstacles, her self-determination and perseverance were unwavering. With the addition of hundreds of employees, dozens of ambulances, and multiple new stations, her role evolved into North Operations Manager, where she continues to serve with tireless dedication and exceptional leadership.

Alisha is known for her ability to connect with employees on a personal level, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported. She is deeply committed to advancing safety initiatives for crews and patients alike, while upholding Superior’s mission, vision, and accreditation standards.

Outside of EMS, Alisha enjoys exploring the outdoors with her husband, Joseph, a firefighter/paramedic, and their children, Theodore and Charlotte. Together, they have visited 40 states, numerous National Parks, and fondly recall memorable adventures including family road trips, a journey to Alaska, and their honeymoon in Ireland.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Alisha Welicki as a 2025 Star of Life for her longevity, leadership, and outstanding service to the EMS profession.

Michelle Walsh

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Michelle Walsh serves as an Advanced Scope Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Ohio. Her decision to enter EMS was inspired by a deeply personal experience: while volunteering at a charity event, her grandfather suffered cardiac arrest. Michelle performed CPR for 15 minutes until EMS arrived, ultimately saving his life. That moment set her on the path to becoming a professional lifesaver.

Michelle completed EMT and Firefighter I training at Hocking County EMS in 2017, later earning her Paramedic license from Pickaway-Ross Career and Technology Center in 2019. She joined Superior of Ohio in 2020 during its startup and quickly distinguished herself as a leader and mentor. In just five years, she has advanced to Field Training Officer, American Heart Association ACLS Instructor, and Orientation Specialist for new-hire training. She also supports Superior’s Specialty Care Transport education and skills programs, and even obtained licensure in Michigan to assist with staffing needs across state lines.

Michelle’s dedication to professional growth, education, and patient care makes her a vital part of Superior’s team and its success in Ohio.

Outside of EMS, Michelle enjoys traveling and photography, especially architectural photography. She and her husband, John, recently combined both passions on a trip to Barcelona, Spain.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to honor Michelle Walsh as a 2025 Star of Life.

 

Parker Wallace

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Parker Wallace began his EMS career at Mecklenburg EMS Agency (MEDIC) in 2017 as an EMT and quickly advanced through the roles of Paramedic and Paramedic Crew Chief before earning his current position as a Field Training Officer.  Parker is an adjunct instructor for Atrium Health’s Center for Prehospital Medicine, helping prepare the next generation of EMS professionals with the same dedication and professionalism that define his own career. He also serves on MEDIC’s Special Events Team and Competition Team, where he continues to demonstrate his clinical excellence and leadership.

As a Field Training Officer, Parker sets high standards of care while supporting new hires with patience, compassion, and encouragement. Colleagues describe him as someone who “meets new hires where they are, diligently working to help them become competent EMTs.” His ability to remain calm and reassuring during even the most
critical calls has earned him the deep respect of partners and students alike. Known for inspiring others through his actions, Parker is celebrated as both an outstanding instructor and a shining example of what an excellent Paramedic should be.

Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to honor Parker Wallace as a 2025 Star of Life.

Samantha Sukel

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Samantha Sukel has served with the Emergent Health Partners Communications Center since 2022. She joined the team as a Call Taker and licensed EMT, quickly advancing to System Controller, where she dispatches fire, EMS, and 911 responses throughout southern Michigan. Sam’s expertise has been vital during large-scale events, including University of Michigan football games and NASCAR races at Michigan International Speedway. Most recently, she was promoted to part-time Communications Center Supervisor, a role that allows her to continue her professional growth while supporting her coworkers with both clinical knowledge and interpersonal skill.

Sam is celebrated by her peers for her positive energy, lighthearted mood, and infectious laugh, which brighten even the most stressful shifts. Her coworkers describe her as a “ray of sunshine” and a constant reminder of the importance of their shared mission. She is known for her ability to remain calm under pressure, guiding 911 callers through life-saving interventions before first responders arrive.

In the summer of 2023, Sam exemplified the very best of EMS dispatch during a pediatric drowning emergency. With composure and clarity, she provided CPR instructions to the child’s family. Her coaching allowed them to sustain effective resuscitation until ALS providers arrived. Thanks to Sam’s decisive actions bridging the gap between the 911 call and EMS arrival, the child regained consciousness en route to the hospital—a life saved because of her skill and steady leadership.

Outside of work, Sam enjoys gardening, camping, and spending time outdoors with her husband and their two dogs, Maverick and Marlo.

Emergent Health Partners is proud to recognize Samantha Sukel as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Joannie Sanchez

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Joannie Sanchez has been a valued member of the Acadian Air Med team since 2023. She serves as a flight nurse in Lafayette, Louisiana. After earning her EMT certification in 2018, she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Emergency Room tech while completing her Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Joannie gained experience in the emergency room, trauma care, and ICU before joining Air Med. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nursing, at the University of South Alabama.

Since joining Air Med, Joannie has shown exceptional dedication through mentoring new nurses and actively participating in the clinical development team and safety committee. Her colleagues admire her commitment, often going above and beyond to support her team, which led to her recognition as Acadian’s Medic of the Year and a Star of Life. Joannie’s goal is to continue her education and provide the best care for her patients.

Daniel Rooney

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Daniel Rooney began his EMS career as an EMT in 2005 and has since become the kind of professional every provider should strive to emulate. His selfless dedication to his patients, colleagues, and community is unmatched.

Dan joined Maricopa Ambulance in October 2019 as an eager and determined EMT. From the beginning, he stood out for his strong desire to learn, often seeking opportunities to collaborate with Paramedics and to deepen his knowledge. His passion and drive quickly earned him a spot in the Maricopa Ambulance Paramedic Cohort Program, and in 2022, he proudly achieved his Paramedic certification.

Since then, Dan has embraced his natural calling as a leader. He served two years as a union trustee with IAFF Local I-60. He completed the Maricopa Ambulance Field Training Officer Academy, mentoring the next generation of EMS providers with the same dedication and professionalism that has defined his own career.

Daniel’s leadership extends far beyond the ambulance. In 2023, he launched a holiday fundraising campaign for Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s Toyland Fund, raising more than $3,000 through his
passion and determination. The following year, Daniel expanded the effort by organizing a community-wide charity Pickleball tournament. The tournament, put on by the Local I60, brought
together 24 teams and raised more than $6,000 for the cause. Going above and beyond, Daniel worked directly with hospital staff to identify specific toys most needed by patients and organized a
shopping trip with fellow EMS providers. Together, they filled nearly 20 carts with gifts and delivered holiday cheer directly to children at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Daniel’s vision and energy have inspired countless others in the EMS community to join the cause, ensuring this effort will continue to grow for years to come.

Equally inspiring is the fact that Daniel is also a devoted husband and father of four. The time and energy he has sacrificed from his own family to uplift others is a true testament to his character and his commitment to the EMS mission.

Thomas Elliot Owen

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

For the past 14 years, Elliot Owen has dedicated himself to serving the people of Central Mississippi as a trusted and compassionate EMS professional. Beginning his career in 2011 as an EMT, he advanced to Paramedic the following year and has since served in multiple leadership roles, including preceptor, field training officer, and, most recently, field supervisor at Magnolia Ambulance. In each position, Elliot has not only cared for countless patients but also mentored and guided fellow EMS providers, helping shape the next generation of caregivers.

Elliot’s commitment to service extends well beyond his shifts. He invests his time coaching Little League, assisting neighbors with projects, and serving children and families in his church community. His dedication to others was powerfully demonstrated during a family vacation, when he and a friend noticed a swimmer face down and unconscious in deep water. Without hesitation, Elliot swam out, pulled the stranger to shore, and initiated life-saving CPR until 911 crews arrived. Thanks to his quick actions, that individual is alive today.

Elliot embodies the courage, compassion, and professionalism that define a Star of Life. His devotion to his patients, colleagues, and community makes him an extraordinary representative of the EMS profession.

Daniel Norfleet

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Daniel Norfleet is a respected leader within First Call Ambulance and the broader EMS community. With decades of dedicated service, he has earned a reputation for experience, knowledge, and reliability, always making himself available when his team and community need him most.

Daniel began his EMS career in 1986 as a volunteer first responder in his local community, an experience that ignited his passion for service. He advanced through the ranks from EMT-Basic to Advanced EMT and ultimately Paramedic, all while pursuing higher education. He continues to champion lifelong learning for himself and his colleagues to ensure that his team provides the highest quality prehospital care. Daniel holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health along with numerous instructor qualifications and certifications.

Widely admired by colleagues and partnering agencies alike, Daniel has earned the trust of law enforcement, the sheriff’s office, medical centers, and county leaders. His collaborative approach has strengthened interagency relationships and elevated the standard of emergency medical services in his county.

In addition to his clinical expertise, Daniel’s leadership shines through his ability to foster communication, teamwork, and a shared focus on patient-centered care. His efforts ensure that every call is supported not only by EMS but also by an entire network of public safety and healthcare partners working in unison.

Daniel’s long-standing dedication, strong leadership, and community-first approach embody the very best of the EMS profession.

Dillon Misenheimer

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Born in Baton Rouge, Dillon Misenheimer grew up surrounded by the world of EMS—his father began working with the department in 1998, and the influence stuck with him. After high school, he attended Northwestern State University, where he played on the drumline and pursued other interests before finding his way back to something more familiar.

Though EMS wasn’t his original career path, returning home after college gave Dillon the chance to explore the field more seriously. He quickly discovered a passion for the job and a deep appreciation for the difference it allows him to make in people’s lives—whether through life-saving interventions or small acts of care and kindness. Since 2019, he’s served as a preceptor, mentoring new EMTs and helping shape the future of the department he essentially grew up in.

Outside of work, Dillon enjoys spending time with friends—many of whom also work in public safety—and unwinding through tabletop gaming. He’s an avid Dungeons & Dragons player, finding joy in the shared storytelling and escape it offers after long, demanding days on the job.

Mathew Matouk

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mathew Matouk serves as a Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance in Illinois, where he is recognized for his clinical expertise, commitment to patient care, and dedication to mentoring new EMS professionals.

Mathew began his EMS journey in 2015 while attending culinary school. Seeking a career with greater purpose, he enrolled in the Emergency Medical Technician program at Joliet Junior College, later completing the Paramedic Program at Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey, Illinois. In 2019, he expanded his emergency service credentials by earning his Firefighter II certification.

He joined Superior in July 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has continually advanced his training. In 2022, he completed the Critical Care Transport Paramedic Program at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin. The following year, he became a Field Training Officer, where he assists Superior’s education department with new-hire orientation, skills assessments, and training.

Mathew is being honored as a Star of Life for his life-saving actions during a roadside emergency. While off duty, he and his partner stopped to assist an unresponsive patient experiencing a drug overdose on the side of an expressway. Mathew immediately administered Narcan, secured the airway, and ensured the patient’s safety until fire department EMS crews arrived to continue care. His swift intervention made the difference between life and death. In recognition of his exceptional performance, Mathew received the Top Performer Award at Superior’s inaugural EMS Symposium in Rosemont, Illinois, in February 2025.

Outside of work, Mathew enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new cuisines, and pursuing his passion for the arts. A drummer and theater enthusiast, he has even appeared as an extra in an episode of Chicago Fire. Looking ahead, he aspires to become a Registered Nurse and is a strong advocate for paramedic-to-RN bridge programs.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to celebrate Mathew Matouk as a 2025 Star of Life.

Christopher Jerrell

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Christopher Jerrell began his EMS career in 2015 at Union Emergency Medical Services, where he built a strong foundation as an Emergency Medical Technician. Guided by the mentorship of seasoned providers, he advanced to the role of Basic Life Support Field Training Officer and soon pursued Paramedic training. After earning both his state and national Paramedic credentials, Christopher joined Mecklenburg EMS Agency (MEDIC) in 2017. There, he discovered a passion for progressive, high-performance EMS and quickly advanced through roles including Paramedic Non-Crew Chief, Paramedic Crew Chief, and Field Training Officer before stepping into his current position as Assistant Operations Supervisor.

Two standout accomplishments reflect Christopher’s dedication to both patient care and mentoring: every new hire employee and Paramedic trainee he has guided has achieved a 100% first attempt pass rate on all required evaluations, and from 2017 through 2024, he achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) on 33 patients. He also served as a Team Lead Administrator for MEDIC’s COVID-19 vaccine clinic, where his leadership helped ensure zero vaccine waste, and has represented the agency in community programs such as the launch of the PulsePoint Respond App and the Keep the Beat initiative to promote bystander CPR. In addition, Christopher serves on MEDIC’s dignitary protection team, providing medical coverage for high- profile officials and events.

Beyond his professional achievements, Christopher has a passion for travel and personal growth. He has set two lifelong goals: to visit all 50 U.S. states and to experience every continent in the world. His commitment to service, leadership, and excellence in patient care embodies the spirit of EMS and continues to inspire those around him.

Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to honor Christopher Jerrell as a 2025 Star of Life.

Stacy Jensen

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

MHealth Fairview EMS proudly recognizes Critical Care Paramedic Stacy Jensen as a Star of Life for her extraordinary dedication, leadership, and compassion. Stacy was recently honored with the prestigious Minnesota Star of Life Award for her unwavering commitment to her patients, her colleagues, and the EMS profession.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by frontline caregivers, Stacy spearheaded the creation of a Peer Support network within MHealth Fairview EMS. Working closely with the organization’s support services, she built a program that provides vital outreach and resources for team members in need. Under her leadership, the program has trained colleagues to be compassionate, informed resources for their peers, fostering a culture of empathy, resilience, and support across the department.

Stacy’s commitment to mental health advocacy also extends beyond her agency. As a multi-year rider in the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride, she has pedaled more than 2,000 miles to honor fallen EMS professionals and raise awareness for the importance of mental health in emergency services.

Her peers describe her as a tireless advocate, a trusted mentor, and a steady source of strength. Whether leading an initiative, responding on scene, or supporting a colleague in crisis, Stacy embodies the highest ideals of the EMS profession.

MHealth Fairview EMS is honored to celebrate Stacy Jensen as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Louann Jarreau

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Louann Jarreau has dedicated more than twenty-five years to emergency medical services, most of them spent in the Communications Center, where her calm leadership and quick decision-making have saved countless lives. Recently promoted to Communications Shift Supervisor, Louann exemplifies excellence in coordinating critical responses and ensuring that patients receive timely care.

Although she briefly worked in the field, Louann discovered her true calling behind the scenes, where her strength lies in managing resources and guiding responders through high-pressure incidents. Her expertise has been vital at major public events, including serving as a medic during President Barack Obama’s visit to McKinley High School, President Donald Trump’s appearance at the River Center, and the Special Olympics, where she had the rare opportunity to speak personally with founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver. She has also provided care at concerts and community events ranging from Elton John to the Beach Boys and served as event medic for the Mrs. America Pageant.

Louann’s exceptional service has been recognized with four Medals of Honorable Service, Communications Officer of the Year, and a Medal of Valor—the only communications officer to ever receive one. She has also been honored at the state and national levels for her leadership during the 2016 police officer shootings in Baton Rouge.

Outside of work, Louann enjoys traveling and spending time with her fiancé, Brandon LeBlanc, their blended family of four children—Jack, Morgan, Trinity, and Kenneth—and their three dogs, Rex, Peanut, and Max. While she loves nearly all animals, she maintains a playful rivalry with her son’s cat, Ms. Kitty.

East Baton Rouge Parish EMS is proud to recognize Louann Jarreau as a 2025 Star of Life for her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public safety.