For more than 27 years, Bob Quast has dedicated himself to serving patients, mentoring colleagues, and strengthening his community. An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with Fairview EMS, Bob has built a career defined by compassion, leadership, teamwork, and an enduring commitment to others.

For 10 years, Bob served as a Field Training Officer (FTO), helping educate, mentor, and prepare the next generation of EMS professionals. He also spent two years as a HealthEast EMS Marketing Specialist, helping represent EMS within the organization and community. His commitment to improving operations extended to service on both the Safety Committee and Equipment Committee, where he contributed his experience to enhancing the safety and effectiveness of EMS operations.

Bob’s contributions have earned numerous honors throughout his career, including the HealthEast “One of the Best” Award in 2010, Drive Safe Awards in 2011 and 2013, and the M Health Fairview EMS Chiefs Award in 2024. Each reflects a different aspect of the consistency and professionalism he has demonstrated throughout decades of service.

Bob’s dedication to helping others extends far beyond the ambulance. For 20 years, he has served as an athletic trainer supporting student-athletes, and for 27 years, he has coached football, track, and strength and conditioning. His impact on generations of young athletes earned him recognition as a member of the Concordia Academy Athletic Hall of Fame.

Service also plays an important role in Bob’s life through music. He has been a member of the National Lutheran Choir for 23 years, including 18 years as a tenor section leader. Whether through EMS, coaching, athletic training, mentorship, or music, Bob continually finds ways to share his time, talents, and experience with others.

At the center of Bob’s life is his family. He is married, has two sons, and shares his home with two chocolate Labradors. Despite the many responsibilities and commitments he has taken on over the years, service to his family and community has remained a constant.

Bob’s more than 27 years in EMS, combined with decades devoted to mentorship and community involvement, reflect an extraordinary lifetime of service. His influence can be seen not only in the patients and colleagues he has supported, but also in the countless students, athletes, families, and community members whose lives he has touched. Fairview EMS is proud to recognize Bob Quast as a Star of Life.

For more than 27 years, Bob Quast has dedicated himself to serving patients, mentoring colleagues, and strengthening his community. An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with Fairview EMS, Bob has built a career defined by compassion, leadership, teamwork, and an enduring commitment to others.

For 10 years, Bob served as a Field Training Officer (FTO), helping educate, mentor, and prepare the next generation of EMS professionals. He also spent two years as a HealthEast EMS Marketing Specialist, helping represent EMS within the organization and community. His commitment to improving operations extended to service on both the Safety Committee and Equipment Committee, where he contributed his experience to enhancing the safety and effectiveness of EMS operations.

Bob’s contributions have earned numerous honors throughout his career, including the HealthEast “One of the Best” Award in 2010, Drive Safe Awards in 2011 and 2013, and the M Health Fairview EMS Chiefs Award in 2024. Each reflects a different aspect of the consistency and professionalism he has demonstrated throughout decades of service.

Bob’s dedication to helping others extends far beyond the ambulance. For 20 years, he has served as an athletic trainer supporting student-athletes, and for 27 years, he has coached football, track, and strength and conditioning. His impact on generations of young athletes earned him recognition as a member of the Concordia Academy Athletic Hall of Fame.

Service also plays an important role in Bob’s life through music. He has been a member of the National Lutheran Choir for 23 years, including 18 years as a tenor section leader. Whether through EMS, coaching, athletic training, mentorship, or music, Bob continually finds ways to share his time, talents, and experience with others.

At the center of Bob’s life is his family. He is married, has two sons, and shares his home with two chocolate Labradors. Despite the many responsibilities and commitments he has taken on over the years, service to his family and community has remained a constant.

Bob’s more than 27 years in EMS, combined with decades devoted to mentorship and community involvement, reflect an extraordinary lifetime of service. His influence can be seen not only in the patients and colleagues he has supported, but also in the countless students, athletes, families, and community members whose lives he has touched. Fairview EMS is proud to recognize Bob Quast as a Star of Life.

Hunter Struemke began his career with Lakes Region EMS as a new EMT, bringing plenty of energy, personality, and perhaps a little unpredictability. Over the years, that energy has developed into an impressive combination of clinical excellence, maturity, leadership, and commitment to the EMS profession.

Today, Hunter is a highly skilled Critical Care Paramedic whose clinical expertise, sharp wit, and genuine humility are evident on every shift. He provides exceptional care in complex and challenging situations and has earned the trust of both his colleagues and the patients he serves. His commitment to excellence extends beyond his own practice, as he actively educates and mentors fellow team members, helping strengthen the clinical abilities and confidence of those around him.

Hunter’s sense of humor remains one of his defining qualities, but equally important is his resilience. Even through personal challenges, he continues to show up for his patients and his team with professionalism, a smile, and, more often than not, a well-timed sarcastic comment. His ability to bring levity to difficult days while never losing sight of the responsibility entrusted to him makes Hunter a valued colleague and teammate.

Perhaps the greatest reflection of Hunter’s abilities is the confidence others place in him when the stakes become personal. He is the kind of Paramedic his colleagues trust not only with their patients, but also with their own families. That level of trust is earned through consistency, sound clinical judgment, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for those in his care.

Hunter’s journey from a new EMT to an accomplished Critical Care Paramedic reflects the continued growth, resilience, clinical excellence, and compassion that define exceptional EMS professionals. Lakes Region EMS is proud to recognize Hunter Struemke as a Star of Life.

Kirk Winkelman has dedicated more than 30 years to emergency medical services, building a career defined by exceptional patient care, professionalism, consistency, and resilience.

Known for his calm, even-keeled demeanor, Kirk has a natural ability to put both patients and partners at ease. After more than three decades in EMS, he continues to approach every patient with the same respect, compassion, grace, and dignity that have characterized his career. His experience has never diminished his sense of responsibility to the person in front of him.

Kirk’s readiness to answer the next call is equally well known among his colleagues. When the tones sound, the recliner goes down, the garage door opens, and Kirk is ready to respond without hesitation. It is a simple routine that reflects the reliability and consistency he has brought to EMS throughout his career.

His coworkers also know and appreciate the traditions and quirks that make Kirk unmistakably Kirk: the blanket that somehow manages to cover either his feet or his head, but never both; his uncanny ability to fall asleep mid-conversation while waiting for the next call; and the enduring mystery of whether he actually eats during a shift. These familiar details reflect the camaraderie built over countless hours spent alongside partners and colleagues during a career devoted to serving others.

Outside of EMS, Kirk enjoys spending time with his family and grandchildren, traveling, and camping.

More than 30 years in EMS represent countless calls answered, patients comforted, partners supported, and lives touched. Through it all, Kirk has remained a steady presence and a trusted professional who continues to treat every patient with dignity and compassion. His quiet professionalism, dependability, and unwavering commitment to service demonstrate what lifelong dedication to EMS can look like.

Lakes Region EMS is proud to recognize Kirk Winkelman as a 2026 Star of Life.

Cody Zehnder is a Critical Care Paramedic with Emplify Health Ambulance who has built his EMS career through continuous growth, clinical excellence, and a steadfast commitment to serving others. His experience spans volunteer EMS, hospital emergency care, ambulance service, and military medicine.

Cody began his EMS journey in 2017 as a volunteer EMT with Caledonia Ambulance Service in Minnesota, later advancing to AEMT and Paramedic. In 2018, he expanded his clinical experience by joining the Mayo Clinic Emergency Department in La Crosse as an EMT.

Cody’s commitment to service also extends to the military. After serving five and a half years with the Minnesota Army National Guard as a tank crewmember, he earned his 68W Combat Medic military occupational specialty with the Wisconsin Army National Guard in August 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cody answered another community need by contracting to administer COVID-19 tests and vaccines.

In 2021, Cody joined the Gundersen Emergency Department as an EMT. He earned his Paramedic license in October 2022 and joined Emplify Health Ambulance as a Paramedic in September 2023. Continuing his pattern of professional development, Cody achieved his Critical Care license in January 2025, further expanding his ability to care for patients with complex medical needs.

While Cody’s progression reflects an impressive commitment to clinical development, his impact is perhaps best demonstrated through the experiences of his patients and their families. Following a frightening emergency involving a young child, the patient’s family specifically recognized Cody for the outstanding care he provided. Their appreciation reflects his ability to combine clinical skill with the compassion and reassurance families need during some of their most difficult moments.

From volunteering as an EMT to advancing into critical care and military medicine, Cody has consistently sought opportunities to learn, grow, and serve. His professionalism, compassion, clinical expertise, and dedication to continued development exemplify the qualities at the heart of emergency medical services.

Emplify Health Ambulance is proud to recognize Cody Zehnder as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Darrell Rohe represents the very best of Lakes Region EMS. Starting his career as an EMT, he has steadily grown into his current role as a Critical Care Paramedic and Field Training Officer. Along the way, he has embraced every opportunity to lead, teach, and strengthen the organization.

As an FTO, Darrell sets a high standard for new hires while providing the patience, encouragement, and honesty that help them succeed. He is known for blending accountability with approachability—offering constructive feedback when it is needed, while also showing others how to enjoy the work and build camaraderie. His commitment to the training process has been clear through his active participation in FTO meetings, often attending more than required and even while on shift. The success of the providers he has mentored is a direct reflection of his diligence and consistency.

Beyond training, Darrell continues to step up wherever he is needed. Whether supporting supervisors, holding his partners accountable, or picking up extra shifts to help keep ambulances on the road, he models the kind of engaged, dependable employee that strengthens the entire organization.

Darrell’s career has also been deeply personal. His faith has been a steady source of strength throughout his EMS journey, shaping the compassion and resilience he brings to every call. It was also through Lakes Region that Darrell met his wife. Today, they are raising three children who light up when they hear sirens and proudly ask to hear their dad’s work stories.

Outside of EMS, Darrell enjoys time with his family and making memories on their farm. His balance of professional excellence and personal devotion speaks to the kind of person he is and his commitment to both his family and his work.

It is an honor to recognize Darrell as a Star of Life for his leadership, dedication, and lasting impact.

Daniel McIntosh has been a valued member of Lakes Region EMS since 2019. He began his career as a Paramedic, providing high-quality care to patients in the field. He then stepped into the role of Field Training Officer (FTO) before progressing to Supervisor, where he continues to support both new and experienced staff while shaping the culture of the organization.

Daniel is one of our most devoted Supervisors. In addition to his supervisory duties, he leads New Hire Orientation, serves as SWAT Medic Lead, and guides the FTO program. His willingness to step into these critical roles demonstrates his commitment to both the organization and the community. What sets Daniel apart is not just his clinical expertise, but his dedication to people. He makes a difference through his compassion for patients and his ability to foster strong connections with colleagues. This past year, Daniel rearranged his schedule to ensure truck coverage while balancing his supervisory responsibilities. He has been instrumental in developing training standards, mentoring new hires, and creating a supportive environment for staff. Many of those he has trained are now serving as FTOs themselves, a testament to his leadership and influence.

Outside of work, Daniel enjoys spending time with his wife, Brittany. Together, they enjoy going to the cabin, four-wheeling, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.

Lakes Region EMS is proud to recognize Daniel McIntosh as a Star of Life for his above-and-beyond commitment and all he has done to support his colleagues, mentor new providers, and serve the community with dedication and compassion.

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.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize John Harding as a 2025 Star of Life. John has dedicated more than 35 years to serving patients and advancing the EMS profession.

Throughout his distinguished career, John has taken on many roles, each marked by his commitment to clinical excellence, mentorship, and community engagement. He currently serves as an Assistant Supervisor at Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service’s Mankato location, where he also contributes his expertise to the Trauma Performance Improvement/Safety Committee and the Mankato Trauma Committee. His leadership ensures that patients and providers alike benefit from a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

John has also played a vital role in Materials Management and, perhaps most notably, in recruitment. He has become a familiar face at EMS conferences and Paramedic programs across the Midwest, where his enthusiasm for the profession inspires students and future providers. Many cite John as a defining influence in their decision to join Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service, reflecting his ability to make a lasting impact on those he meets.

John’s supervisor, Pat Holm, notes: “John has consistently demonstrated excellence in his profession. His contributions span a wide range of responsibilities, including hospital-to-hospital transfers, emergency 911 responses, mentoring the next generation of Paramedics, and recruiting new talent.”

For John, EMS has always been more than a career—it is a calling. He reflects, “I have always found this career to be extremely rewarding. I have had the privilege to work with so many incredible people in the EMS community. I have so much respect and admiration for the people we work with, including Fire, Law Enforcement, First Responders, Emergency Department personnel, and so many others who help provide EMS to our communities.”

Beyond his professional achievements, John is a devoted husband and father of two adult children. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is honored to celebrate John Harding as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, recognizing his decades of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his patients, colleagues, and community.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Amy Wollenburg, Paramedic, as a Star of Life. Amy joined Mayo Clinic Ambulance in 2007 and has taken on various roles such as Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Community Paramedic, Assistant Supervisor, and Instructor. She serves in both our Austin/Albert Lea locations and our Education Department.

Amy’s nomination for the Star of Life Award highlights her exceptional dedication to helping others, whether it’s restocking an ambulance, covering a shift, or providing support to colleagues after difficult calls. Her actions reflect a deep sense of compassion, which positively impacts the well-being and experiences of everyone she interacts with.

Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine and a certificate in EMS administration. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities, attending sporting events for her niece and nephew, and participating in high-intensity fitness classes.

Amy expressed her gratitude for being nominated for the Star of Life Award by her colleagues, emphasizing the significance of the recognition, especially coming from a dedicated team in Austin and Albert Lea. She draws inspiration from the unwavering commitment and compassion of her colleagues and feels privileged to work alongside them.

Amy believes that the award not only acknowledges her efforts but also symbolizes the collective strength, support, and camaraderie among the team in Austin and Albert Lea. She is thankful to be part of this group and is committed to upholding the high standards set by the team in delivering care and service to their patients. Dan Anger, Director of Education and Training, describes Amy as a devoted and compassionate paramedic who consistently goes above and beyond. Her dedication to patient care, quick thinking during critical situations, and steadfast support for her colleagues distinguish her in the field. Amy’s tireless efforts to uphold our primary value of the needs of the patient come first, as well as her role as a mentor for all staff, make her a deserving recipient of the Star of Life Award.

For over 30 years, Stacy Omdahl has dedicated herself to serving the rural communities of Roseau County, Minnesota. She began her career in 1994 with the then volunteer Roseau Ambulance, now LifeCare EMS, following the encouragement of a friend. Throughout her career, Stacy has remained a steadfast and invaluable part of the organization, offering her expertise and guidance to countless staff members who have come and gone over the years. As a historical anchor for LifeCare EMS, Stacy has played a vital role in preserving the organization’s traditions while adapting to the ever-changing nature of the EMS profession.

When reflecting on her career, Stacy takes great pride in giving back to the community where she grew up. For her patients, the familiarity of a known and friendly face brings an added sense of comfort during difficult moments. Her deep connection to her community drives her commitment to providing exceptional care.

Stacy is highly respected by both her colleagues and the community she serves. A hospital staff member shared, “When Stacy is on, I feel things run smoothly and efficiently, and she always has a smile on her face. Her priority is the patient and what is best for them. She is well-liked and respected in the community and serves as a mentor to others.” Stacy’s presence at community events, either representing LifeCare EMS or with her family, highlights her deep involvement and dedication to the people of Roseau.

Beyond her contributions as a mentor and role model in EMS practice, Stacy also promotes responder wellness, often seen walking around the hospital and EMS campus, setting a positive example for her peers.

Throughout numerous changes in the organization, Stacy has been a steadying force, demonstrating professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her patients and community. Her 30 years of service stand as a testament to her commitment, making her a cherished member of LifeCare EMS and a role model for all who work alongside her.

Royce Hsiung, EMT-IV Tech at Lakes Region EMS, has been a dedicated member of the organization since 2018, beginning as an EMT and advancing to the role of EMT Field Training Officer (FTO) in 2020. In addition to his EMS work, Royce has proudly served in the Army National Guard since 2012, bringing invaluable leadership and experience to both his military and EMS roles. Over the years, Royce has played a significant role in mentoring and educating new EMS professionals, occasionally serving as an orientation educator for new hires.

What truly sets Royce apart are the acts of kindness he performs outside of his typical EMS duties. Whether it’s shoveling a patient’s driveway or helping an elderly patient with groceries, Royce believes these compassionate acts are as important as providing medical care. In one memorable instance, he helped a patient clean her kitchen while his partner made her a sandwich. Her son later arrived, expressing deep gratitude, and the moment exemplified the quiet, meaningful impact Royce has on his community.

Royce has also been instrumental in the evolution of the FTO program at Lakes Region EMS. When he first became an FTO, the program was paper-based and lacked clear goals. Thanks to the collaboration between FTOs and the incorporation of feedback, the program has since transitioned to a digital system, making the experience more efficient for new hires. Royce takes pride in seeing former trainees rise to become FTOs themselves, recognizing this as one of the most rewarding aspects of his role.

Outside of his professional life, Royce leads an active lifestyle, enjoying gym workouts, running, and single-track trail riding. He and his wife play in two volleyball leagues, and he also enjoys disc golfing, amateur ball golfing, and camping with his family. A lifelong learner, Royce engages in various hobbies such as tying fishing flies, playing video games, and learning to cook. He also loves traveling with his wife and spending time outdoors.

Through his dedication to Lakes Region EMS, his military service, and his commitment to helping others, Royce Hsiung embodies the spirit of the Star of Life award. His compassionate approach and continuous drive for improvement make him an exemplary EMS professional.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Taylor Gibson, as a Star of Life.

Since joining in 2018, Taylor has excelled as an Assistant Supervisor and Emergency Medical Dispatcher in Emergency Communications. Colleagues praise Taylor’s exceptional performance. One coworker noted, “Taylor is a true asset to Emergency Communications. His work not only exceeds standards but also significantly impacts patients, providing unparalleled support and care.”

Taylor’s supervisor, Seth Whalen, commends his broad EMS knowledge and dedication: “Taylor often goes above and beyond expectations. He’s a tremendous asset to colleagues and patients alike. His unwavering commitment to positive outcomes for patients, telecommunicators, and EMS staff is evident in all he does. The joy and satisfaction he finds in his work are both apparent and refreshing.”

Outside of work, Taylor is married to Rebecca, a Mayo Clinic nurse. They have a son and two dogs, enjoying cooking and traveling together. Banff National Park, western Montana, and Maine hold special places in their hearts.

Taylor’s stellar performance and positive impact on colleagues and patients alike make him an exemplary choice for the Star of Life recognition.

Taylor has made a positive difference in the lives of many people, and he has earned the respect and admiration of his peers and supervisors. He is a valuable member of the EMS community, and he embodies the spirit and purpose of this award.

Brandon Trauba has been an incredible asset to Lakes Region EMS over the course of his career. Starting as an EMT in 2014, Brandon quickly progressed to Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, Supervisor, then on to Operations Manager today. Brandon continues to be an exemplary leader in his newest role; he asks difficult questions and is thoughtful but firm in how he deals with challenges. He shows great ownership and engagement in the organization and has a good practice of looking at things through both a leadership lens as well the lens of a field provider.

In his role as an Operations Manager, Brandon is the driving force behind many improvements within the organization. He leads the Field Training Officers group, mentoring new and experienced employees. He also guides new staff through orientation, readying them to serve the community on their own. Brandon also spearheaded the rollout of an entirely new narcotics process. He diligently gathered feedback from all staff, worked to understand the process, and then trained the team before launching the module.

In addition to his contributions to the communities of Lakes Region EMS, Brandon has been a member of the United States Reserves for the past 12 years. He has served our country on multiple deployments as a Flight Paramedic.

Outside of work, Brandon enjoys spending his time with his four-year-old daughter and wife, Justine. He also enjoys going to the family cabin in his spare time.

Lakes Region EMS is proud to recognize Brandon Trauba as a 2023 Star of Life.

Marcia Anderson has served as an outstanding medic, teacher, and mentor for her many years in EMS. No one has more dedication and passion for our profession than she.

Marcia has worked as a Paramedic for M Health Fairview for more than 30 years. During that time, she has held many roles and has had a positive impact on many people; Paramedic, FTO, FTEP Training Specialist, Educator, Mentor, and Wellness Advocate. Marcia is dedicated to bettering herself and our profession through educational opportunities, and as such she has earned numerous instructor certifications and attained the rank of Critical Care Paramedic, FP-C. Marcia has contributed to the development of EMS in Dakota County by providing extensive training to First Responders and the general public as well as building strong EMS professionals in her role as Educator with Century College Paramedic program.

Marcia is a strong promoter and advocate for better mental health and wellness for EMS professionals. As an active rider with the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride for several years, Marcia has peddled more than 1,000 miles, bringing awareness to the mental and physical strain mobile healthcare professionals take on, as well as memorializing those EMS professionals who left us too soon.

A top-tier EMS clinician, educator, mentor, and role model, Marcia epitomizes the spirit of the Star of Life.

The City of Cannon Falls Ambulance Service takes great pride in nominating Paramedic Brenda Voshalike as a 2022 Star of Life recipient.

Brenda has served the community as a Dispatcher, Police Reserve Officer, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, and Educator. Brenda is now in her fifth decade of service to the Cannon Falls community.

Beginning as a Police Dispatcher in the 1970s, Brenda was encouraged to become an EMT with what was then a volunteer ambulance service. She eventually assumed a leadership role as the Ambulance Supervisor, and then Service Director, and assisted in transitioning the service to a combination career/volunteer model. After identifying a need for Advanced Life Support service in the community, Brenda earned her Paramedic certification, becoming the first Paramedic in Cannon Falls. When the concept of Community Paramedicine became a reality, Brenda was one the first to obtain the additional training and licensure.

Brenda has been, and continues to be, actively involved as an educator for both new EMTs and members of the community, teaching CPR and First Aid. Hundreds of students throughout the years have learned life changing and lifesaving skills from Brenda.

As part of the Minnesota EMS Honor Guard, Brenda provides a valuable service to her profession throughout the state. She offers support services for Line of Duty and Non-Line of Duty funerals, and honors those who have fallen in our challenging profession. All of the members, including Brenda, volunteer their time for the program.

While many of her peers might joke that her first charting system was on stone tablets, no one has provided more time contributing to EMS in the community. Brenda has averaged over 3,000 hours on the schedule per year. Although many of these hours are on duty hours for her full-time position, plenty are also from back up coverage, teaching, and public information events.

Brenda Voshalike is the very definition of service before self. Thousands of residents and visitors to the Cannon Falls community have been impacted by Brenda. Without any doubt, we are proud to call her a friend, a partner, and a Star of Life.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Shelly Ziegler, Paramedic, as a Star of Life.

Shelly began her career with Mayo Clinic in 2008, initially as a Paramedic at Mayo Clinic Ambulance in Fairmont, MN, and now works in Mankato, MN. Shelly’s patient care skills and commitment are evident to all who work with her. She is also known for her compassion and ability to communicate with patients of all ages as well as their family members.

“Shelly is the consummate teammate who selflessly helps out not just with the Mankato team but with our other operations as well,” says Paul Drucker, Senior Director of Mayo Clinic Ambulance. In a nomination submission, one of Shelly’s colleagues notes a time when Shelly went above and beyond the call of duty to provide for the physical needs of the family of a patient on what was certainly their worst day. Shelly helped the family without seeking any acknowledgement and with her own funds, though not for the first or only time. Shelly’s colleague also remarked that Shelly is an admirable example of how to serve every day.

When asked to give her advice to new Paramedics and EMTs entering the field of EMS, Shelly explained, “Always be willing to help others and be there for coworkers. We have a special career, and we see and deal with a lot of things most people would never dream of doing. Sometimes we are the only ones that understand how each other feels. Be sensitive to that and always take care of your work family!”

Shelly is originally from Vernon Center, MN and received her Paramedic education at South Central College in Mankato, MN.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Lisa Vogel, Education Instructor in Education and Training, as a 2022 Star of Life.

Lisa began her career at Mayo Clinic in 1988.

“Helping others has been my life’s work,” Lisa says. “The combination of continuous education, the use of the latest and greatest technology to improve care, and the commitment to ensure the needs of the patient come first, is what has always driven me. The compassion and dedication required to do the job right, and to be there when others are at their worst.”

Lisa consistently demonstrates the highest standards of the Mayo Clinic values—Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Healing, Teamwork, Innovation, Excellence, and Stewardship. In a Star of Life nomination form, a colleague wrote that Lisa “can be trusted with the most delicate information, whether it has to do with patient confidentiality, employment issues, or personal issues. She is someone you can openly discuss things with, and employees will often seek her out when they have had a stressful situation in their career or personal lives. She is always ready to listen, even when off-duty, and is a twenty-four-hour employee.”

In addition to her role at Mayo Clinic Ambulance, Lisa serves as Chief of Midway First Responders in Proctor, MN. She also works with the EMS Honor Flight program for veterans, and has coordinated an annual Thanksgiving Day meal at an arena in Duluth, MN for those in need, which has served many thousands of meals since 1991.

Whether Lisa is providing EMS education to colleagues, volunteering in nearby communities, leading a medical first responder unit, or directing the efforts of a meal for thousands, her one sole focus has always been helping people. To Lisa, “Making a difference in people’s lives is the most rewarding outcome there is.”

Allison Stout has been an incredible asset to Lakes Region EMS over the course of her ten-year career. Starting as an EMT, Allison advanced to become a Critical Care Paramedic, FTO, and, most recently, a QA Coordinator.

Allison has gone above and beyond, investing an incredible amount of time training and onboarding each employee. She has not only taught classes, but also has progressed our clinical education offerings by reviewing, adapting, and developing new courses. Allision’s contributions to further develop the organization’s clinical excellence are remarkable. She sets the tone and expectations for each new hire, embracing the clinical culture at Lakes Region EMS. She shows great ownership in the organization with each employee she has the opportunity to interact with.

Allison is also an accomplished artist. Prior to starting her career in EMS, she worked as a studio and commission artist. Making art and being creative is still a source of enjoyment, but has become more of a leisure activity in recent years. When Allison is not working, she enjoys spending time with her partner, Jon, and his son, Zander, as well as the rambunctious quadrupeds that live with them.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Lyle Groves, Transport Nurse Manager, as a 2022 Star of Life.

Lyle began his career at Mayo Clinic in 1986 and has held a variety of roles throughout his tenure. He has never backed away from a challenge, which is what has always made Lyle such a key member of the team. Lyle’s first day as a nurse at Mayo was in the intensive care unit, and from that day forward he consistently looked for new things to learn and new ways to care for his patients.

“I take pride in meeting challenges head-on and finding solutions,” Lyle says. “I have never been one to say ‘that’s not my job;’ rather I look for ways to solve problems. For me, that approach is gratifying.”

Lyle’s colleagues describe him as one who is always willing to help and to reach out to others in need. He has the ability to recognize when a peer or patient is upset or struggling, and is ready to listen with calming compassion. Of his admirable attitude, Lyle says, “You have to approach your role with desire, ambition, find something that excites you and keeps you motivated. You also have to continue to learn, there is always something in health care to learn.”

Lyle is originally from Rice Lake, WI and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI.