Pafford EMS of Louisiana is proud to recognize Paramedic Rusty Gilbert as a Star of Life. Rusty has dedicated nearly three decades to emergency medical services, earning the highest levels of clinical certification and respect through his exceptional skill, dedication, and compassion.

Throughout his career, Rusty has been unwavering in his commitment to rural communities, ensuring that patients receive world-class care regardless of their circumstances. His colleagues know him as someone who always gives 100 percent, no matter the challenge, and who does so with humility and without complaint.

Beyond his clinical excellence, Rusty has had a profound impact as an instructor and mentor. He takes every opportunity to share his knowledge with new clinicians, helping to shape the next generation of EMS professionals. Many members of the Pafford team and beyond credit their growth and confidence to his steady guidance and encouragement.

Rusty embodies the very best of EMS and the values of the Pafford Promise. His skill, leadership, and dedication to both patients and colleagues make him more than deserving of recognition as a Star of Life.

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.

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.

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.

Braxton was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. From an early age, he knew he wanted to become a first responder, inspired by his father, who serves as both a firefighter and EMT. Hearing his father’s stories growing up sparked his interest in the medical side of emergency services and ultimately led him to pursue a career in EMS.

He began his career in 2022 with Acadian Ambulance as an EMR and soon earned his EMT certification. In 2023, he joined East Baton Rouge EMS, where he is now approaching two years of service. He is currently enrolled in paramedic school and actively working toward his certification.

Outside of EMS, he is passionate about powerlifting and strongman training, regularly competing within the local strength community in Baton Rouge. Powerlifting has become a vital physical and mental outlet for him after long shifts. He also enjoys attending concerts and supporting Louisiana’s local metal scene.

Alison M. Cagle began her journey in emergency medical services while still in high school in Sacramento, California, where she took Emergency Medical Responder classes. In early 2021, she earned her EMT certification and worked for two years before moving across the country to join the Acadian Ambulance family in Lafayette, Louisiana. She is currently enrolled in paramedic school, continuing her commitment to advancing her skills and serving her community.

Alison has a passion not only for patient care but also for educating youth about the importance of EMS. She takes immense pride in her work and is known for her ever-present smile and positive attitude, which uplift both her colleagues and her patients. Her peers and supervisors alike commend her unmatched dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic.

Outside of EMS, Alison specializes in protection training for dogs, a skill her paramedic partner has noted has been unexpectedly helpful on calls involving patients’ pets. This unique expertise reflects her creativity and resourcefulness both on and off the job.

For her dedication to EMS, consistent hard work, and commitment to quality patient care, Alison was recognized as Acadian Ambulance’s 2025 EMT of the Year. Today, Acadian proudly celebrates her as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life honoree.

Savannah Steele Welch joined Acadian Ambulance in 2019. After earning a degree in Kinesiology from Louisiana Tech in 2016, Savannah embarked on an EMT course. She currently works as a Critical Care Transport Paramedic on the night shift in Ouachita Parish. In early 2024, she earned the role of Paramedic Field Supervisor.

Beyond her core duties, Savannah is esteemed as a mentor and field training officer. She garners respect from her colleagues, patients, and the local community.

In late 2022, she and her EMT partner earned Meritorious Service Awards for going above and beyond in rescuing a patient from a submerged vehicle, proving that EMS is both rescue and healthcare service.

In pursuit of professional growth, Savannah aims to acquire her Registered Nurse license, aspiring for dual licensure. A valued team member, Savannah is admired by many in her region. Her exceptional performance in handling challenging calls during her first year post-paramedic school earned her the moniker “black cloud”.

Outside of work, she takes pride in her role as a wife and mother to thirteen pets, including six chickens. During her leisure time, she enjoys horseback riding, attending concerts, and cherishing moments with her husband, friends, and family.

Allison Sharp was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she developed a deep commitment to helping others that would shape her career in emergency medical services. After high school, Allison pursued her EMT-Basic certification at Louisiana Technical College, marking the beginning of her journey in EMS. Her passion for the field led her to further her education at the National EMS Academy, where she completed her paramedic course. She also spent time at Baton Rouge Community College, earning 34 credit hours as she expanded her knowledge.

At just 19 years old, Allison began her career in EMS, working as an EMT-Basic on an ambulance. She served with Acadian Ambulance from April 2002 to April 2005, where her dedication and skill were quickly recognized. In April 2005, she advanced to the role of Paramedic, continuing her work with Acadian Ambulance until December 2011.
In January 2012, Allison joined East Baton Rouge EMS, where she has since served as a Paramedic for more than 12 years. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her community and her profession. Her expertise and leadership within the department were further acknowledged in 2024 when she was promoted to Unit Commander. This new role represents a significant milestone in Allison’s career, highlighting her growth and dedication over the years.

Allison’s involvement within the department extends beyond her day-to-day duties. She plays an active role on the Guideline Committee and serves as an Associate Advisor for the EMS Explorer Post, where she mentors aspiring EMS professionals. Additionally, she has been instrumental in the revamping of the Field Training Program (FTEP), contributing to its ongoing success and ensuring that new EMS personnel are well-prepared for the challenges they will face.
Outside of her professional life, Allison finds joy in creative pursuits. She has a passion for fluid art, particularly acrylic flow painting and resin art, which allows her to express herself and unwind after the demands of her work.

On a personal note, Allison is looking forward to a new chapter in her life. She is set to marry the love of her life, Travis Swanson, on October 19th, 2024. Together, they share a home with their three beloved rescue dogs.

Allison Sharp’s story is one of dedication, growth, and a deep commitment to service. Her contributions to the EMS community, coupled with her love for art and family, make her a respected and valued member of both her professional and personal circles.

Emily Robillard was born and raised in the small town of Morganza, Louisiana, where she developed a deep love for the outdoors and a natural inclination to help others. This sense of purpose guided her to pursue higher education at Northwestern State University from 2000 to 2004. After college, Emily discovered her passion for emergency medical services, leading her to enroll in the East Baton Rouge EMS Paramedic Academy. In 2006, she earned her EMT certification, and just a year later, she became a certified Paramedic. This achievement marked the beginning of a long and rewarding career dedicated to serving her community.

In 2010, Emily transitioned into a communications role within EMS, a position she continues to hold with dedication and pride. Over the past 18-1/2 years, her career has been defined by her commitment to excellence and her unwavering dedication to public safety. Emily has become an integral part of the East Baton Rouge EMS team, not only in her communications role but also through her involvement in various key initiatives.

As a member of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, Emily provides vital support to her colleagues during challenging times, ensuring their emotional and mental well-being. Her compassionate nature extends to her role as a handler for Indie, the department’s beloved service dog, where she helps address the unique needs of her team. Emily’s passion for education is evident in her work as a CPR instructor and her role in training future EMS professionals as an instructor for EMR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic courses. Additionally, she serves as a skills examiner for Louisiana Bureau of EMS NREMT candidates.

Outside of her professional life, Emily is a woman of diverse interests. She loves to travel, attend concerts, and fish, embracing the adventures that life offers. Her creative spirit shines through in her hobbies, which include 3D printing, CNC machining, laser etching, and building things from scratch. Emily’s ability to combine creativity with precision is a testament to her resourcefulness and talent.

Perhaps one of Emily’s most endearing qualities is her deep love of animals. She has never met an animal she didn’t like, and it’s not uncommon for her to bring home a variety of creatures, whether it’s three baby cows, two goats, a box of chicks from Tractor Supply, a baby squirrel she found, or even a pet raccoon she “rescued” on the road. Her friends and family are never surprised by her latest animal companion, knowing that Emily’s heart is always open to caring for those in need.

Amber Munch was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, but she spent most of her formative years in Augusta, Georgia. Her journey into emergency medical services began after a brief stint at Louisiana State University. In 2019, Amber decided to channel her passion for helping others by earning her EMT-Basic certification, laying the foundation for a promising career in EMS.

Her drive to advance in the field led Amber to enroll in the East Baton Rouge EMS Training Academy, where she earned her Advanced EMT certification in 2023. For the past three years, Amber has been an integral part of the East Baton Rouge EMS team, consistently demonstrating her dedication and skill in serving the community.

Amber’s commitment to her professional growth is evident as she awaits news of her application to Paramedic school, a step that marks her continuous pursuit of excellence in emergency medical services. In addition to her regular duties, Amber is an active member of the Guideline Committee and is on track to join the Special Response Team and Bike Team upon completion of her training. These roles reflect her dedication to both her personal development and the well-being of her community.

Outside of work, Amber enjoys a rich and fulfilling personal life. She cherishes time spent with family and friends, often visiting them whenever she can. A self-proclaimed Costco enthusiast, she enjoys the thrill of shopping and finds joy in attending concerts. As the youngest of four siblings and the only girl, Amber shares a special bond with her family, particularly with her nieces and nephews. Her role as an “obsessed auntie” is one she holds dearly, bringing boundless energy and affection to her family gatherings. At home, she is the proud owner of a dog named Gary Potter, who adds even more warmth and joy to her life.

Amber Munch’s story is one of dedication, growth, and love—both for her work in EMS and for the family and friends who shape her world. As she continues to pursue her goals, Amber remains a devoted public servant and a cherished member of her community.

Samantha joined Acadian Ambulance in 2021 and has been a hardworking team member since. She currently works in Bexar County out of our Schertz station. She is always ready to help out with any task, whether it is cleaning the offices, checking the units, or assisting someone in need. She is skilled and knowledgeable, and someone her team trusts and respects. In early 2024, she graduated from Acadian’s National EMS Academy Paramedic program and is now working as a Paramedic.

Samantha faced many hardships and traumatic experiences throughout her childhood. She found stability and guidance in her grandmother, who served as a pastor and chaplain for the San Antonio Fire Department. It was through her grandmother’s influence that Samantha developed a strong interest in EMS.

She survived a severe car accident when she was 17 years old, where she suffered an aortic dissection, a fractured wrist, and broken ankles.

Through it all, she has remained a positive person and it shows in the work she does. Samantha brightens the halls with her laughter and smile, and she collaborates well with her peers and leadership. In early 2024, she was the recipient of the President’s Performance Award.

Samantha is a mother of six, so she knows how to handle any challenge with efficiency and grace. Samantha said, “Acadian has helped me become a great person and medic. When I come to work, I forget about everything else and just focus on the job at hand. I love helping others, my partner, and new students, as well as meeting new people.”

Lauryn Allgood is being honored as a Star of Life for her contributions to quality improvement across her organization. Lauryn’s Quality Enhancement Program Director marked her as a standout contributor when Lauryn joined a committee tasked with mitigating or eliminating risk. When that leader moved into a new position, she transitioned Lauryn to lead the committee and continue the project to completion.

Lauryn accepted the challenge evincing an ingrained desire to lead and an innate knack for being a leader. She impressed her colleagues with her ability to learn, think critically, problem-solve, and—most importantly—ask the right questions. By the time Lauryn had completed the companywide project, her efforts had impacted every single flight crew member in the Air Evac organization. She has helped foster a culture of continuous improvement that is not limited to improving patient care but touches all areas of operations and all people.

Lauryn is a skilled clinician who holds a Master’s degree in Nursing and is committed to providing care at a moment’s notice. This makes her service outside the designated scope of a flight nurse all the more noteworthy. She reflects the best values of the company and is an asset on the job and off.

Madelyn Clesi has been an EMT with Acadian Ambulance for more than two years. She is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, and currently works in Baton Rouge. She serves as a Field Training Officer and is also in school to earn her Paramedic certification.

Madelyn was nominated as a Star of Life and Acadian’s EMT of the Year because of her willingness to help students, new hires, and coworkers. She genuinely wants to help make people the best they can be. “Her humanity is what drives her,” said her Operations Manager, Justin Cox.

Madelyn is also a member of the Louisiana National Guard, to which she credits her focus and solid work ethic.

Another Operations Manager, Hallie Stewart, noted, “Madelyn is well spoken, relatable, and funny. She exhibits emotional intelligence and strategy when addressing uneasy subjects.”

Victoria Danton is a native of Watson, Louisiana, and has been with Acadian Ambulance for six years, beginning as an EMT. She now serves as a Paramedic in Donaldsonville in Ascension Parish, and additionally as a Field Training Officer, Associate National EMS Academy Instructor, and Explorer Post Advisor. She has a love for small communities, and has worked in Donaldsonville for more than five years.

Victoria is known among her colleagues and company management for her professionalism, compassion, clinical knowledge, and mentorship. She is a consistently high performer in employee and clinical metrics, and she leads others by example. She is passionate about what she does and has a desire to help the company improve at the little things to keep it at its best.

Victoria’s husband, Joey, is also an Acadian Paramedic. Victoria is currently a student at Nicholls State University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in health science, with the goal of becoming a physician assistant.

Southwest Louisiana native Tyler Weaver has served as an EMT with Acadian Ambulance for almost five years. Tyler works out of Lake Charles and was previously partnered with fellow Star of Life, Paramedic Mike Richard.

Tyler enrolled in college to study nursing but found that he was not called to work in a hospital setting. Instead, Tyler earned his EMT certification and has enjoyed every moment working for Acadian.

Tyler has established himself as a courteous, compassionate, and professional patient care provider. He has a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and attention to detail, which have earned him respect from Acadian’s management team as well as Tyler’s peers, patients, and customers.

In addition to his EMT role, Tyler is also a new hire preceptor.

“A motto I try to live by every day is something an old school medic once told me: ‘To know one patient felt better due to my actions makes it all worth it,’” Tyler says.
Tyler is currently attending Acadian’s National EMS Academy to earn his Paramedic certification, with plans to remain at Acadian for the duration of his career.

Tyler has one young son. He is also an avid scuba diver and has visited the Bahamas, Costa Rica and the Cayman Islands.

Acadian Ambulance Paramedic Michael D. Richard originally joined the company in 2008 as an EMT. Mike later advanced to the Paramedic level. After spending a few years pursuing other career opportunities, Mike came back to Acadian in 2015. In 2017, Mike became a Critical Care Transport Paramedic working in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and in 2018, he was promoted to a Paramedic Field Supervisor position. While in Lake Charles, Mike was ambulance partners with EMT Tyler Weaver.

Currently, Mike operates a Rural Responder Sprint Truck in Acadia Parish, Louisiana, and handles some of the area’s governmental relations. Mike also serves as a preceptor and mentor for new hires.

Acadian Operations Manager John DuBose says, “Not only is Mike good at his job, but he makes others around him want to do better. He leads by example and challenges employees to always do the right thing.”

Mike is known for his remarkable work ethic, exemplary Paramedic skills, positive attitude, and leadership. Mike regularly receives compliments from governmental officials, firefighters, and police officers for his professionalism and kindness.

Mike played bass in a band for six years when he was younger and says The Beatles and Led Zeppelin are his two favorite bands. Mike is married and has four young sons. In his free time, Mike and his wife enjoy exploring coffee from micro-roasters across the country.

Alex Durio joined Acadian Ambulance in 2008, as an EMT-Basic in their New Orleans, LA, operations. Soon thereafter, he realized that EMS combined his passion for medicine with his love of public service, and he began paramedic school. After completing his certification in 2010, he returned to his hometown of Lafayette, LA, to work for Acadian’s “Hub City” operations. He has certainly thrived in this role, and was recently named as Acadian’s 2014 Louisiana Paramedic of the Year. In December 2011, Alex placed his EMS career on hold to join the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Gone for nearly a year, Alex returned to Acadian and picked up right where he left off. Because of his service to our country, Alex was awarded the Paramedic of the Year Commendation Medal in 2013 by the Attakapas Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. Alex is an avid outdoorsman, and spent many years in the Boy Scouts of America. He is currently enrolled in the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, pursuing a degree in mathematics.”

Callie Callais majored in geophysics at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, but during her college tenure, decided a desk job was not for her. She found her calling in Gretna, LA, where she enrolled in the National EMS Academy and graduated in the fall of 2011 as an EMTBasic. She is currently Acadian’s 2014 Louisiana EMT-Basic of the Year. Callie works in Acadian Ambulance’s Orleans operations, and often assists with large-scale New Orleans events such as the Jazz & Heritage Festival and Voodoo Music Experience.When she isn’t working, she enjoys Mardi Gras, camping, hiking, and concerts. She is still quite fascinated by rocks, and enjoys traveling and bringing back different minerals for her collection.”

Taylor is a Mamou High School graduate. He was raised with strong family values. Both of his parents are extremely hard working and successful in everything they do. This background led him to success in his job at Franks Casing Crew in Lafayette, Louisiana. He began as a shop hand and worked his way up to a completion supervisor. The time away from his family led him down a new career path. This is where his story with Acadian Ambulance begins.

Taylor has been employed by Acadian since August 2016 as an EMT Basic working out of Evangeline Parish in Ville Platte. Taylor arrives to work on time, and completes his daily duties without hesitation. He works well with his partner to ensure his station and unit are in mint condition and ready for what the day might bring. Taylor is an excellent Basic and has a “can do” attitude with any task assigned to him. He has a hunger for knowledge, and is currently in a Paramedic class.

Taylor is a Louisiana man, through and through—hard working with good Southern values, family-oriented, and dedicated to providing for his family. He is married to Krysten and is father to 2 beautiful children; stepson Jayden and baby daughter Brylee. Taylor enjoys coaching Jayden’s baseball team. He is an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoys woodworking, gardening, and working around his family farm.

His partner and the Acadian family have nothing but amazing things to say about Taylor as a person and an employee. He is highly respected by his co-workers and team members in the medical community. His peers write that he is driven and passionate, and strives to be better tomorrow than he was today.

Family, faith, and hard work form the foundations of Taylor’s upbringing. Those traits are very evident in his work here at Acadian Ambulance.

Taylor says, “I was lucky enough to be put with a long time employee that knows the Acadian Way. I can only hope to make such an impact on my patients throughout my career as he has with his.”

We are proud to share with you Taylor Walden, Star of Life and Acadian Medic of Year from Central Louisiana.

Jerret was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, lived in New Orleans as a child, and moved to Central Louisiana when he was 14. He has called Alexandria home since then. 

Jerret is a Navy veteran, serving from after he graduated high school in 2006 until 2009. He trained to be a Hospital Corpsman and became a field medic. His duty station was with the 1st Battalion 8th Marines for two years. He later deployed for seven months to the forward operating base in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Jerret speaks of having a great “feel of community” while in Iraq, helping civilians and young children who were injured and needed medical attention. He received a Commendation medal after his tour in Iraq.

After his service in the Navy, Jerret went on to work at Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria. He spent three years supporting surgical services as a scrub tech and cleaning surgical instruments, then decided to enroll in the next EMT Class at NEMSA.

Jerret was hired by Acadian. He went through a rough period of time, both personally and professionally, and there was a separation of employment with Acadian. During that separation he became a Paramedic. Life lessons learned during this time helped mold Jerret into the man he is today.

Jerret was then rehired by Acadian. Within six months, he was promoted to Alternate Operations Supervisor/Paramedic Field Supervisor. He took on the challenge of the Critical Care Transport class in October 2015 and now works as a Critical Care Medic on U261.

Jerret received nominations from his peers across our seven-parish area for the Paramedic of the Year for Central Louisiana. That is testimony to his professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to what he does as a Paramedic and a PFS.

Jerret is a single “hands-on” father to three daughters and a son. He faces daily challenges being a mediator and helping the children balance emotions while traveling between two households. Jerret spends time and is involved in his children’s school activities, but he doesn’t stop there. Church is also a huge part of their lives. The family attends his grandmother’s church, where his father is a deacon and his uncle is the choir leader. Jerret and his children participate in church activities.

Jerret is a humble, professional, lead-by-example Paramedic. He sets a benchmark for others to achieve. He is able to communicate and assist others in creating a more enjoyable and positive workplace. 

Jerret said about his nomination:

“There was a point in school where individual awards and trophies were my benchmark. As an adult and Paramedic, I now understand that it takes a community to be successful. I owe my nomination to the very ones who voted for me, as I am a piece of every medic and every basic I have encountered.”