Kaitlyn Vandervest is a Paramedic with AMR in Grand Rapids, Michigan, whose actions during an unexpected off-duty emergency demonstrated remarkable composure, clinical judgment, and commitment to helping others.

Kaitlyn was driving home after completing her shift, still in uniform but outside AMR’s coverage area, when she came upon a major incident involving a critically injured patient. Although she was off duty, Kaitlyn immediately stepped forward to help.

As the only Paramedic on scene, Kaitlyn quickly assessed the patient, identified the severity of the injuries, and relayed critical information to incoming responders. Recognizing the need for a higher level of care, she identified the need for air transport and provided lifesaving support until the patient could be evacuated.

What makes Kaitlyn’s response even more remarkable is that she had been working independently as a Paramedic for only a matter of months. Despite being early in her Paramedic career and unexpectedly encountering a major emergency outside her normal response area, she relied on her training, remained focused, and provided the care her patient needed.

Kaitlyn’s actions demonstrate that the commitment to serve does not end when a shift is over. Her willingness to act, coupled with her clinical judgment and composure under pressure, reflects the qualities at the heart of emergency medical services. AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Kaitlyn Vandervest as a Star of Life.

Brittany Scurlock, BAS, Paramedic-IC, is a respected EMS educator and Lead Instructor for Life Support Training Institute (LSTI) at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan. With 27 years of experience in EMS and the fire service, Brittany has dedicated her career to strengthening the profession through education, innovation, leadership, and mentorship.

Brittany earned her Paramedic license in 2001 and her Michigan EMS Instructor-Coordinator license in 2007. Her career has included service with Mount Carmel Connect in Ohio, Huron Valley Ambulance, Lyon Township Fire Department, and Schoolcraft College. She joined LSTI in 2019 and became Lead Instructor at Superior/LSTI in 2021. She also serves as a member of Superior’s Honor Guard.

Brittany holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Paramedicine and maintains credentials as a Paramedic, firefighter, and State of Michigan Instructor Coordinator. She also teaches CPR, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Prehospital Trauma Life Support.

Throughout her career, Brittany has educated more than 200 EMTs and 100 Paramedics. Under her instructional leadership, multiple graduating classes have achieved a 100 percent pass rate on the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians examination. Her contributions to LSTI’s Paramedic program include developing pathology journals, incorporating simulation-based education using SimMan, and creating an asynchronous Paramedic education program designed to expand access to high-quality EMS training.

Brittany’s influence extends beyond the students in her classroom. As Lead Instructor, she oversees program administration, curriculum and examination development, item analysis, and continuous program improvement. She also provides guidance, mentorship, and professional support to EMS instructors throughout LSTI’s five-state service area, helping fellow educators strengthen their teaching and improve student success.

Brittany’s contributions to EMS education have earned recognition throughout her career, including the Michigan Star of Life Award in 2023. Her greatest legacy, however, can be seen in the clinicians she has prepared, the educators she has mentored, and the programs she has developed to strengthen the future of EMS. Through her commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and professional development, Brittany exemplifies the spirit of a Star of Life. Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan is proud to recognize Brittany Scurlock as a Star of Life.

Alexia Morgan was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, with an early desire to help people through some of life’s most difficult moments. As a child, she dreamed of becoming a trauma surgeon. Although her path ultimately took an unexpected direction, that desire to make a meaningful difference for patients and families never changed.

While pursuing pre-med studies in college, Alexia discovered an interest in forensic science and eventually earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Criminal Justice and Forensics. Her first professional internship was with the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office, but an experience outside the classroom ultimately led her toward a career she had not anticipated.

One day, Alexia witnessed a fatal hit-and-run crash. Without hesitation, she stopped and went to the injured pedestrian’s side. Despite her efforts, the individual died in her arms. The heartbreaking experience left a lasting impression on Alexia, as did the gratitude expressed by the victim’s family for her willingness to remain present during such a difficult moment. Alexia realized she wanted the knowledge and skills to respond effectively when people faced medical emergencies. That realization led her to EMS.

Alexia enrolled at Dorsey College to pursue her Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) education. While later working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at a hospital, she encountered a Medstar Ambulance crew transporting a patient. One of the Paramedics encouraged her to apply, telling Alexia that she would be a good fit for EMS. She submitted her application that same evening.

Remarkably, Alexia’s first ride was with the same Paramedic who had encouraged her to apply. During that shift, they responded to an extremely traumatic call. After seeing how Alexia handled herself, the Paramedic told her, “You were made for this EMS lifestyle. You handled that with flying colors on day one.” The words became an important source of confidence as Alexia continued building her career.

With the support of her instructor, Alexia overcame significant test anxiety and successfully passed the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians examination on her first attempt. Over the past four and a half years, what began as a career aspiration has become something much deeper. EMS has given Alexia a community, a family, and a calling.

Alexia remains motivated by the opportunity to bring compassion and reassurance to people during their most vulnerable moments. Whether calming a frightened patient, helping stabilize someone during a critical emergency, or simply being present for a family facing an uncertain moment, she strives to give each patient everything she has.

Alexia’s journey has taught her that a calling does not always follow the path a person first imagines. Her childhood dream was to make a difference as a trauma surgeon; instead, she found a profession that allows her to make that difference in an immediate and deeply personal way—one patient and one family at a time.

Medstar Ambulance is proud to recognize Alexia Morgan as a Star of Life.

Markie McGowan is a Paramedic and supervisor with Life EMS whose professionalism, compassion, and dedication have earned the respect of the colleagues she leads and the patients she serves.

Whether navigating a challenging call in the field or addressing a difficult concern with a team member, Markie approaches each situation with patience, professionalism, and empathy. She excels at balancing her responsibilities as a skilled Paramedic with her role as a leader, providing exceptional patient care while helping fellow associates learn, grow, and succeed.

At the patient’s side, Markie has a natural ability to connect with people and make them feel comfortable and cared for, even during stressful circumstances. As a supervisor, she brings that same thoughtful approach to her colleagues, offering constructive feedback and support while maintaining high professional standards.

Markie’s leadership is especially important in the rural community she serves. In addition to her clinical and supervisory responsibilities, she manages significant administrative demands, responds to questions and concerns, and oversees scheduling and coverage. When staffing challenges arise, Markie routinely adjusts her own schedule to help ensure adequate ambulance coverage for the community and support for her team.

Her willingness to step forward reflects the kind of leader Markie is. She does not simply oversee the work of others; she works alongside them, consistently going above and beyond to help patients, colleagues, and the communities Life EMS serves.

Through her clinical skill, compassionate leadership, reliability, and willingness to put the needs of others first, Markie exemplifies the spirit of a Star of Life. Life EMS is proud to recognize Markie McGowan as a Star of Life.

Rebekka DelaRosa began her career in Emergency Medical Services in 2017 and has distinguished herself as a clinician, educator, and leader committed to advancing both patient care and the EMS profession. Since joining Southwestern Michigan Community Ambulance Service (SMCAS) in 2023, she has become an invaluable member of the organization and a driving force for continuous improvement.

A Critical Care Paramedic and Instructor Coordinator, Rebekka combines advanced clinical expertise with a passion for developing the next generation of EMS professionals. Through education and mentorship, she invests in the growth of her colleagues and students, helping them strengthen their knowledge, skills, and confidence as providers.

One of Rebekka’s most significant contributions to SMCAS has been her leadership in developing and implementing an enhanced Quality Assurance program. Under her guidance, Quality Assurance has evolved into a collaborative process that actively engages staff, encourages professional development, and empowers providers to play a meaningful role in improving patient care and outcomes.

Rebekka’s approach to Quality Assurance reflects her broader philosophy as an EMS leader. Rather than viewing improvement as an individual responsibility, she has helped foster a culture in which providers learn together, hold themselves accountable to high standards, and continually seek opportunities to improve. Her work has strengthened both individual clinicians and the organization as a whole.

Through her service as a Critical Care Paramedic, her dedication to EMS education, and her leadership in organizational improvement, Rebekka demonstrates an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her influence reaches beyond the patients she personally treats to the students, colleagues, and providers she helps develop.

Rebekka’s dedication to patient care, education, professional growth, and innovation exemplifies the values of Southwestern Michigan Community Ambulance Service. SMCAS is proud to recognize Rebekka DelaRosa as a Star of Life.

Christopher “Chris” Schoenherr is a respected leader with Life EMS whose kindness, dedication, selflessness, and commitment to others are evident in the way he serves both his community and his colleagues.

Chris leads by example. Whether he is caring for the communities Life EMS serves, supporting fellow associates, or assisting teams in other divisions, he is always willing to step forward when help is needed. He never asks someone to take on a responsibility he would not accept himself, and he consistently demonstrates a willingness to go the extra mile for those around him.

What distinguishes Chris as a leader is that he does not seek recognition for himself. Instead, he finds fulfillment in seeing the members of his team succeed, grow, and receive recognition for their accomplishments. He genuinely wants those around him to become the best versions of themselves and willingly invests his time and experience to help them achieve that goal.

Chris is particularly generous in sharing what he has learned about the challenges and responsibilities of leadership. His advice to other supervisors is simple but powerful: “Lead from the front and be the leader you wish you had.” That philosophy is reflected in his own actions and has resonated with the colleagues he has mentored.

Through his willingness to serve, support others, and lead by example, Chris has become a trusted teammate, mentor, and role model. His leadership is defined not by recognition, but by the success of the people around him and the positive difference he makes for his colleagues and community.

Life EMS is proud to recognize Christopher Schoenherr as a Star of Life.

Since joining Life EMS in November 2009, Mike Krucinski has earned the trust and respect of his colleagues through his hard work, dedication, and genuine commitment to serving others.

Mike consistently demonstrates skill, compassion, dignity, and respect in every interaction. Whether caring for a patient, working alongside colleagues, communicating with the control center, or helping someone in the community, he approaches others with professionalism and a sincere desire to make a positive difference.

Mike takes great pride in his work and is committed to continually strengthening his knowledge and skills. He approaches every call with professionalism and compassion, focused on providing each patient with the highest level of care possible.

What truly distinguishes Mike is the trust he has earned throughout his career. His colleagues know they can depend on him, and his patients can feel confident knowing they are in capable and caring hands. Mike leads by example, not for recognition, but because he believes in doing what is right for his patients, his colleagues, and the community he serves.

Through more than 15 years with Life EMS, Mike has demonstrated the compassion, integrity, accountability, and commitment to service that exemplify the spirit of the Stars of Life program. Life EMS is proud to recognize Mike Krucinski as a Star of Life.

Since joining LifeCare Ambulance in 2021, Julianna Votava has distinguished herself through clinical excellence, compassionate patient care, and a commitment to developing those around her. She began her career with LifeCare as an EMT before earning her Paramedic license and being promoted to Senior Paramedic in 2023. Her passion for mentoring new employees and supporting her colleagues led to her promotion to Field Training Officer in 2025.

As one of LifeCare’s most involved Field Training Officers, Julianna plays an important role in developing monthly training topics and helping ensure compliance with required protocols and procedures. She is passionate about helping her colleagues strengthen their skills and become confident, prepared providers. Her compassion extends beyond patients to her fellow first responders. Never one to shy away from difficult calls or situations, Julianna makes herself available to colleagues who need to talk or decompress after a challenging incident.

Julianna’s skill and leadership were put to the test following a large-scale tornado in Union City, Michigan, in the spring of 2026. Julianna and EMT Andrew Ragain were dispatched to what was initially reported as a single-home collapse. As the first ambulance to arrive, they quickly discovered that an entire neighborhood had been directly in the storm’s path and was devastated.

Recognizing the magnitude of the incident, Julianna and Andrew immediately requested an escalated response, established scene command, and set up triage. They began search-and-rescue efforts, assessed the number and severity of patients, coordinated triage, and helped organize patient transportation. Julianna and Andrew remained on scene alongside other responders until County Emergency Management established command, helping ensure that patients were appropriately treated and transported. Their calm, decisive actions helped bring order to an extraordinarily chaotic scene and contributed to the best possible outcome under difficult circumstances.

Outside of work, Julianna enjoys spending time with her husband, Carter, who is also a Paramedic at LifeCare. She is active in her church and currently serves on its worship team.

Julianna’s dedication, compassion, and willingness to lead when others need her most make her an outstanding clinician, mentor, and colleague. LifeCare Ambulance is proud to recognize Julianna Votava as a Star of Life.

Since joining Huron Valley Ambulance in 2020, Abraham Paternoster has distinguished himself through an impressive combination of professional growth, clinical excellence, leadership, and compassion. Abraham began his career with HVA as a Mobility Transportation Driver before progressing through EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic school, earning his Paramedic license in 2022.

Abraham’s dedication and abilities quickly earned the confidence of his colleagues and leaders. After becoming a Paramedic, he was promoted to Senior Paramedic and, most recently, to Field Training Officer. In this role, Abraham uses his knowledge and experience to mentor students and new employees, challenging them to reach their full potential while providing the encouragement and support they need to succeed. He is also a member of HVA’s HAZMAT and Special Pathogen Response teams, providing patient care in complex and challenging situations.

Known for his positive, easygoing, and professional demeanor, Abraham is a natural leader and role model. He treats everyone he encounters with respect and brings an enthusiasm for learning to his work each day. A motivated self-learner, Abraham continually seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge and learn from other experienced providers—a quality that strengthens both his own practice and his effectiveness as a mentor.

That same dedication is evident in Abraham’s patient care. He is a skilled clinician who remains calm, focused, and professional even when caring for critically ill or injured patients. Abraham approaches every patient with compassion, empathy, and respect, recognizing that excellent care means attending to a person’s emotional well-being as well as their medical needs.

Outside of EMS, Abraham’s adventurous spirit takes him outdoors, where he enjoys wilderness survival training, hiking, backpacking, dispersed camping, and ultimate frisbee. He is also working toward another personal challenge: completing his first half-marathon.

From his remarkable professional growth to his commitment to patients and colleagues, Abraham exemplifies the qualities of a Star of Life. Huron Valley Ambulance is grateful for the many ways he serves his team and community and is proud to recognize Abraham Paternoster as a Star of Life.

Monroe Community Ambulance is proud to recognize Carrie Boulton as a Star of Life. Carrie has dedicated nearly two decades to serving her patients, colleagues, and community, joining MCA in 2006. She currently serves as a Paramedic Team Leader, a dual role that showcases her clinical expertise, professionalism, and leadership.

Even among first responders, who are known for their versatility, Carrie stands out for the many roles she fills with skill and dedication. On any given day, she may be in the field caring for patients, serving as a training officer for new employees, sharing her expertise during an emergency drill, or supporting MCA supervisors with a wide range of operational responsibilities. Whatever the assignment, Carrie brings experience, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to those she serves.

Perhaps Carrie’s greatest strength, however, is her deep commitment to the people behind the uniform. For many colleagues, Carrie is the first phone call after a difficult incident or when they are facing other mental health challenges. She holds numerous advanced certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and peer-to-peer support and is an active member of the Monroe County CISM Team. Her specialized training, combined with her willingness to listen and support others with compassion and empathy, makes her an invaluable resource not only to MCA but also to first responders throughout Monroe County.

Carrie’s distinguished service personifies the spirit of a Star of Life. As a skilled clinician, trusted colleague, compassionate source of support, and friend to many, she has become a vital part of the fabric of Monroe Community Ambulance. MCA is profoundly fortunate to have Carrie on its team and proud to recognize her as a Star of Life.

Kaitlyn “Katie” Freeman is a Critical Care Paramedic with Medstar, serving communities throughout Genesee County, Michigan. With 12 years of EMS experience and an extensive background in hospital-based care, Katie has earned the trust of coworkers, patients, and families through her clinical knowledge, calm presence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Katie’s path to EMS began when a flight nurse she worked alongside recognized her aptitude in the emergency department and intensive care unit and encouraged her to pursue prehospital medicine. Her hospital experience has spanned emergency care, intensive care, obstetrics, surgical recovery, general medicine, and orthopedics, giving her an unusually broad clinical foundation. Throughout her career, she has held 17 different certifications and has continually sought opportunities to expand her knowledge.

Katie’s determination was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she worked full-time in both hospital care and EMS while simultaneously completing Paramedic school. Balancing frontline service in two demanding healthcare environments with the rigors of Paramedic education demonstrated the discipline and commitment to patient care that continue to define her career.

That depth of experience is evident on every call. Katie is known for remaining composed under pressure while quickly evaluating multiple aspects of a complex situation. Meticulous in her assessments and particularly skilled in cardiology, she continually studies emerging interventions, protocols, and treatment approaches. Her expertise has earned her the affectionate nickname “Cardiac Katie,” and colleagues regularly seek her guidance on cardiology, protocols, and challenging clinical situations.

Coming from a family of teachers, Katie also has a natural passion for education. She enjoys helping students and colleagues strengthen their knowledge and encourages those around her to continually improve. She hopes to build on that passion by becoming a Field Training Officer and completing instructor-coordinator training.

Perhaps the strongest testament to Katie’s abilities is the trust placed in her by fellow EMS professionals. She has repeatedly been called upon to care for colleagues and their family members during serious medical emergencies. Her partner credits Katie’s clinical judgment and decisive care with helping save the lives of two members of his family. Her willingness to help wherever she is needed has even extended beyond human patients: during a house fire, Katie assisted in rescuing three dogs.

Katie’s compassion has also been formally recognized. During her hospital service, she received a Starfish Award for the care and compassion she demonstrated to patients and was also named Employee of the Month.

Outside of medicine, Katie enjoys photography, gardening, camping in Pentwater, spending time with her dog, and helping friends and family. She is also an accomplished baker whose pies have earned first-place honors in competitions.

Through her clinical expertise, compassion, lifelong learning, and willingness to share her knowledge with others, Katie represents the qualities that strengthen both patient care and the EMS profession. Medstar is proud to recognize Kaitlyn “Katie” Freeman as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Maryam Dawood is an EMT and Field Training Officer with Medstar in Metro Detroit, Michigan, whose passion for emergency medical services is closely connected to her interests in public health, education, and community service.

Maryam’s journey into EMS began in high school, when she enrolled in an EMT course. The COVID-19 pandemic prevented her from completing the program, but the interruption did not change her determination to pursue the profession. Just a few years later, at age 19, Maryam earned her EMT license through Macomb Community College and began building the career she had envisioned.

As an EMT, Maryam takes tremendous pride in providing professional and compassionate care to her patients. She values EMS because it continually challenges her to learn, improve, and become a stronger provider. That commitment to growth has also shaped her work as a Field Training Officer. In that role, Maryam encourages every student she mentors to hold themselves to high standards while never losing sight of the compassion and professionalism patients deserve.

Her experiences in EMS further strengthened Maryam’s interest in education and public health. She earned a bachelor’s degree in public health with a background in biology and used her undergraduate research to explore the importance of naloxone in communities affected by substance use disorder. Her firsthand exposure to overdose prevention through EMS helped inform her interest in the subject and reinforced her belief in the importance of education, prevention, and accessible care.

Maryam has carried that commitment into her work with a harm reduction agency in Detroit, where she provides accessible basic health care and connects people with substance use disorders to additional social care resources. Her EMS background has helped her recognize the importance of meeting people where they are and combining clinical care with education, compassion, and community support.

Maryam believes that caring for others and helping lift them up is among the highest honors a person can have. Whether caring for a patient, mentoring an EMT student, or supporting someone through harm reduction services, she puts that belief into practice.

Through her compassion, resilience, mentorship, and commitment to connecting EMS with broader community health needs, Maryam represents a promising generation of EMS professionals dedicated not only to responding to emergencies, but also to strengthening the communities they serve. Medstar is proud to recognize Maryam Dawood as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Life EMS Ambulance is proud to recognize Supervisor Josh Lewis as a Star of Life. With more than two decades of dedicated service in Emergency Medical Services, Josh is a respected leader whose career reflects both clinical excellence and deep compassion.

Josh has responded to thousands of emergencies, consistently providing lifesaving care with professionalism and grace under pressure. His calm presence during critical situations and his ability to lead by example have earned him the admiration of colleagues and patients alike. Beyond his work in the field, Josh is a mentor and advocate, guiding countless EMTs and Paramedics throughout their careers.

As a Supervisor, Josh has been instrumental in fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and teamwork. His leadership has contributed directly to improved response times, enhanced patient outcomes, and greater operational efficiency. Known for his approachability, humility, and tireless dedication, he inspires confidence in his team and strengthens the entire organization.

Outside of EMS, Josh remains deeply involved in his community. He volunteers as a firefighter and rescue squad member and is an active participant in his local church. His commitment to service extends far beyond his professional role, embodying the spirit of care and compassion that defines the EMS profession.

Life EMS Ambulance is honored to celebrate Josh Lewis as a Star of Life in recognition of his leadership, humanity, and lifelong dedication to serving others.

Life EMS celebrates Zachary Jahnke as a 2025 Star of Life. Zachary consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to both personal and professional growth. He actively seeks opportunities to improve his skills, whether through formal education or by soliciting valuable feedback from peers to enhance patient care. His dedication to healthcare is evident in his willingness to mentor and train others, generously sharing his knowledge and experience to uplift the team.

Zachary takes great pride in his responsibilities and is always ready to support his colleagues, both during and outside of scheduled hours. His reliability is unmatched, frequently volunteering for extra shifts to ensure smooth operations and exceptional patient outcomes. He exemplifies the perfect blend of skill and compassion, making him a standout member of the team.

It is with great enthusiasm that Life EMS selects Zachary for the Star of Life award, as he truly embodies the ideals of excellence, dedication, and compassionate care.

Life EMS Ambulance is honored to recognize Paramedic Courtney De Weese as a Star of Life. With more than nine years of dedicated service, Courtney exemplifies the organization’s core values of clinical excellence, leadership, skill, and compassion delivered with dignity and respect.

Courtney has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both her patients and her colleagues. She maintains composure in high-pressure situations, makes sound clinical decisions in critical moments, and inspires her peers to achieve their best. Beyond her exceptional patient care, Courtney has contributed to training, policy development, and the successful implementation of the Behavioral Health Transport (BHT) program, which has enhanced both patient outcomes and provider safety.

She is widely regarded as the first to step up when help is needed—whether mentoring new hires, covering extra shifts, supporting colleagues after challenging calls, or stepping in during times of leadership transition. Her willingness to serve others and her steady presence have made her a cornerstone of the Life EMS team.

What truly sets Courtney apart is her heart. She embodies the spirit of a servant-leader, carrying the weight of the job with humility, lifting up those around her, and never losing sight of the humanity behind the uniform. Her dedication, courage, and leadership have left an indelible mark on her colleagues, her patients, and the community she serves.

Life EMS Ambulance proudly celebrates Paramedic Courtney De Weese as a Star of Life.

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.

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.

Huron Valley Ambulance proudly recognizes EMT and Field Training Officer Nathan Cagna as a 2025 Star of Life. Nathan joined HVA in 2024 after completing the EMT Work-Training Program, quickly distinguishing himself as a dedicated clinician, mentor, and teammate.

Nathan’s journey to EMS is remarkable. After serving 12 years on a specialized team in the British Armed Forces, he relocated to the United States to be near his wife’s family. Though he had no prior medical background, Nathan was drawn to EMS for its teamwork and its mission of helping others. His natural leadership and strong work ethic allowed him to excel during training, and he rapidly became known for his professionalism, positive attitude, and passion for patient care.

In the fall of 2024, Nathan was promoted to Field Training Officer, where he now guides and supports new employees. He is often seen helping colleagues study policies and protocols, patiently mentoring them to succeed. Nathan particularly enjoys collaborating with University of Michigan Physician EMS Fellows, finding their perspectives invaluable in shaping how he teaches prehospital care. His peers describe him as approachable, encouraging, and always willing to lend a hand.

Beyond his service at HVA, Nathan is committed to lifelong learning and plans to begin Paramedic training this year. At home, he enjoys spending time with his wife, hiking with their dog, and competing in pistol shooting competitions. Nathan and his wife are excitedly preparing to welcome their first child, a baby girl.

Through his dedication, professionalism, and impact as both a caregiver and mentor, Nathan has earned the respect of his coworkers and the admiration of the community.

Maurice Matthews is being honored by Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan for his outstanding contributions to the EMS profession over 46 years of dedicated service. Maurice has continuously served the Metro Detroit area since launching his career in 1978. He began as an Ambulance Attendant, then became an EMT in 1979, a Paramedic in 1986, and a Critical Care Paramedic in 2007. In 2021, Superior was fortunate to have Maurice join the team, where he continues to provide exceptional patient care.

Maurice is known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his role as an exceptional mentor and co-worker. Throughout his career, he has cared for thousands of sick and injured patients and has trained dozens of Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics. When asked what he enjoys most about the EMS profession, Maurice said he values every aspect of the job—from patient care to taking pride in the rig and training new personnel.

Outside of EMS, Maurice enjoys hunting and spending time with his wife and three children. Superior is proud to honor Maurice Matthews as our 2024 Star of Life.

Lori Peterson, a Paramedic and Field Training Officer at Medstar Ambulance, is recognized by her peers for her exceptional dedication to patient care and unwavering support for her colleagues. Known for treating every patient as if they were a member of her own family, Lori’s compassionate approach is a hallmark of her work.

In addition to providing top-notch care, Lori serves as a valuable resource for both new and experienced EMS personnel, as well as local first responders and hospital staff. Her knowledge and willingness to share her expertise make her an integral part of the team. Lori is always there to lend a hand, whether someone is facing personal or professional challenges, and she consistently brings a positive, caring attitude to every shift.

Lori’s exemplary behavior and willingness to go above and beyond for her patients and colleagues have earned her the respect and admiration of all who work with her. Medstar Ambulance is proud to nominate Lori Peterson as a 2024 Star of Life, recognizing her outstanding contributions to EMS and her community.