Kiara Baum is an EMT and Field Training Officer with AMR in Syracuse, New York, who has distinguished herself through compassion, courage, emotional intelligence, and clinical skill.

Kiara demonstrated these qualities during a particularly challenging response involving a patient experiencing a crisis and facing immediate danger. Recognizing that establishing trust was critical to a safe outcome, Kiara approached the patient with patience and steady reassurance. She calmly engaged the individual, helped secure their safety, and worked alongside law enforcement officers to de-escalate the situation. Her ability to remain composed and compassionate during an emotionally charged encounter played a critical role in protecting the patient.

Kiara brings that same commitment to her colleagues and the continued development of her EMS team. In just two years with AMR, she has advanced to Field Training Officer, taking on responsibility for helping guide and develop other EMS professionals. She also serves on her operation’s Wellness Committee, supporting efforts to care for the people who dedicate themselves to caring for others.

Kiara’s actions demonstrate that exceptional EMS care requires more than clinical knowledge. It also requires empathy, communication, sound judgment, and the ability to connect with people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Through her service to both patients and colleagues, Kiara has already made a meaningful impact early in her EMS career.

AMR is proud to recognize EMT and Field Training Officer Kiara Baum as a Star of Life.

Jacob Monser is an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Lieutenant with Mohawk Ambulance whose path to EMS is defined by service, purpose, and a determination to make a difference in the lives of others.

Born in Cooperstown, New York, Jacob spent much of his childhood between Troy and Cherry Valley. He grew up riding dirt bikes and working on small engines, developing an early appreciation for hands-on work and adventure. Later, Jacob joined the United States Marine Corps, an experience that profoundly shaped his character, discipline, habits, and outlook on life.

After leaving the Marine Corps, Jacob spent several years searching for the sense of purpose he had once found through military service. That changed when he came across a job listing for EMTs at Mohawk Ambulance. What initially appeared to be an opportunity to begin a new career quickly became something far more meaningful.

Jacob joined Mohawk Ambulance approximately a year and a half ago and soon realized that EMS was where he wanted to build his future. In that relatively short time, he has demonstrated his potential as both a provider and leader, earning a promotion to Lieutenant.

Jacob draws inspiration not only from the opportunity to help patients, but also from the EMS professionals who have dedicated decades of their lives to serving others. He admires those who have built careers around being present for people on some of the most difficult days of their lives. Their example has helped shape his own vision of a lifelong career in EMS.

Outside of work, Jacob is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys staying active year-round. During the warmer months, he spends weekends backpacking and is working toward becoming an Adirondack 46er. When winter arrives, he can often be found on the slopes freestyle skiing. He also enjoys bouldering, bow hunting, and fishing.

Whether serving patients on an ambulance, leading colleagues as a Lieutenant, or challenging himself in the outdoors, Jacob brings the same sense of purpose, discipline, and determination that has shaped him throughout his life. Mohawk Ambulance is proud to recognize Jacob Monser as a Star of Life.

Tina Spittler has dedicated 19 years to Mohawk Ambulance, serving 11 years in the field before transitioning to dispatch, where she has spent the past eight years supporting crews from behind the microphone. Throughout her career, one thing has remained constant: Tina’s desire to be there for people when they need someone most.

That calling began long before Tina entered EMS. As a child, she remembers chasing fire trucks and ambulances just to see where they were going. Even then, she wanted to be the person others could count on during their most difficult and vulnerable moments—to offer reassurance, hold a hand, and remind someone that they were not alone.

Before pursuing that dream, Tina devoted herself to her family. She raised two sons, largely on her own, and spent many years caring for her mother as she lived with dementia. Following her mother’s passing, Tina decided it was time to pursue the career she had always felt called to. She became an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and joined Mohawk Ambulance.

During 11 years on the ambulance, Tina cared for people from all walks of life. Those experiences strengthened her, deepened her compassion, and reinforced a principle that continues to guide her: Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, regardless of who they are, where they live, or the circumstances that brought them into her care.

Today, Tina continues her service as a dispatcher. Although the demands are different, she embraces the responsibility of supporting crews throughout their shifts. Tina describes the dispatch center as a well-oiled machine where colleagues become friends and, ultimately, family. She takes tremendous pride in doing everything she can to help crews reach their patients and return home safely.

After nearly two decades with Mohawk Ambulance, Tina remains grateful to be living the dream she carried with her since childhood. She is equally proud to serve an organization she believes cares deeply about its employees and the communities they serve.

Outside of work, Tina enjoys fishing with her husband, who competes in fishing tournaments. Some of her favorite moments, however, are the quiet ones—kayaking, reading a good book, listening to music, and simply appreciating the world around her. These moments give her an opportunity to recharge after a career spent caring for and supporting others.

From the ambulance to the dispatch center, Tina has devoted her career to ensuring that people know someone is there when they need help. Her compassion, perseverance, and commitment to patients and crews embody the spirit of a Star of Life. Mohawk Ambulance is proud to recognize Tina Spittler as a Star of Life.

Susan Mahony’s distinguished EMS career spans decades of service, beginning on the front lines of emergency medicine. For 25 years, Susan served on a 911 ambulance, responding to emergencies across the city and providing critical care to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments.

As the EMS system grew and evolved, Susan grew with it, adapting to new roles and responsibilities while continuing to provide expert care under pressure. After spending much of her career responding to 911 calls, she expanded her expertise into interfacility transport. Today, Susan cares for critically ill patients during transport to specialized facilities, bringing the same experience, clinical judgment, and dedication that have defined her career.

Susan’s impact extends well beyond the patients she has treated. Throughout her career, she has embraced opportunities to mentor students, residents, and new employees during ride-alongs. She takes particular pride in sharing the lessons that can only come from years of experience, helping others understand both the realities of EMS and the tremendous reward that comes from making a difference in someone’s life.

For Susan, teaching the next generation is an important part of giving back to the profession that has meant so much to her. The knowledge, perspective, and compassion she shares with developing clinicians ensure that her influence will continue through the many EMS professionals she has helped prepare for their own careers of service.

Away from EMS, Susan enjoys the quieter moments of life with her beloved pets—her dog, Pongo, and cats, Binx and Kizmet. She also enjoys gardening and relaxing by the firepit with a good book, activities that provide a welcome opportunity to recharge after a career devoted to caring for others.

Through decades of dedicated patient care, adaptability, and mentorship, Susan has made a lasting contribution to EMS and to the countless patients and providers whose lives she has touched. She is proudly recognized as a Star of Life.

Michael Stern is an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with Northwell Health whose passion for patient care and commitment to service are evident in every aspect of his work. Throughout his career, he has grown not only as an EMS professional but also as a person, drawing lessons in compassion, resilience, and humanity from the patients and communities he serves.

Working on the front lines of New York City’s 911 system, Michael and his partner respond to people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Each call has strengthened his clinical skills while deepening his empathy and understanding of the people behind the emergencies. Through challenging and unforgettable experiences, Michael has developed into a compassionate, capable clinician who remains focused on providing excellent care when his patients need it most.

Michael approaches his work with genuine passion and pride and values the opportunity to serve as part of the Northwell Health team. The demands of emergency response have strengthened his resolve and reinforced his commitment to treating every patient with skill, dignity, and compassion.

Beyond EMS, Michael finds his greatest fulfillment in being a father. Time with his son provides a cherished counterpoint to the demands of his profession. Whether they are riding bikes, watching movies, or embracing the joyful mess of baking cinnamon rolls together, their time together keeps Michael grounded and reflects the same care and presence he brings to his patients.

Michael’s journey exemplifies the spirit of EMS: selfless service, continuous growth, compassion for others, and a deep connection to both family and community. Northwell Health is proud to recognize Michael as a Star of Life.

Hajin is a Paramedic with Northwell who approaches the privilege of serving his community with clinical skill, compassion, and a deep commitment to his patients. Whether caring for critically ill patients or supporting people through vulnerable and uncertain moments, he strives to provide each person with expert care, dignity, and respect.

From the beginning of his career as a Paramedic, Hajin embraced the role wholeheartedly. His diligence, clinical capabilities, and willingness to learn quickly earned the respect of those working alongside him. That reputation was recognized when his peers nominated him for Northwell’s Newcomer of the Year award, an honor he subsequently received. Colleagues consistently describe Hajin as kind, respectful, dependable, and representative of the qualities they value in a Paramedic.

The same discipline and commitment Hajin brings to EMS are evident in his life outside of work. An avid practitioner of jiujitsu and Muay Thai, he also coaches kickboxing, giving him another opportunity to mentor others and help them develop their skills and confidence.

When he needs to recharge from the demands of emergency medicine, Hajin enjoys heading outdoors and hiking with his dogs. Time on the trail provides an opportunity to clear his mind, reconnect with nature, and return to his work renewed.

Although still building his career, Hajin has already established himself as a compassionate clinician, respected colleague, and dedicated member of his community. Through his clinical expertise, kindness, professionalism, and commitment to continued growth, he represents the values at the heart of emergency medical services.

Northwell is proud to recognize Hajin as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Lester Freemantle’s lifelong commitment to emergency medical services began in the small town of Pittstown in Rensselaer County, New York. Inspired by his two older brothers, who helped establish their hometown ambulance service, Lester enrolled in an American Red Cross Advanced First Aid course at just 15 years old. By 16, he was already riding on the ambulance and serving his community.

At 17, Lester was encouraged to pursue New York State EMT certification. After completing the course, he was recruited for instructor training and soon began teaching American Red Cross Advanced First Aid and assisting with EMT classes—all while still a teenager. Those early experiences began a lifelong commitment not only to caring for patients, but also to educating and developing others.

After high school, Lester joined a paid ambulance service and, in 1982, became one of the organization’s first Paramedics. In November 1984, he joined Mohawk Ambulance Service and quickly advanced into a supervisory role. During more than four decades with Mohawk, Lester has served in numerous leadership positions, including Supervisor, Manager, and Regional Manager. In November 2024, he renewed his Emergency Medical Technician certification and currently serves as a Captain.

Lester’s influence extends far beyond his individual agency. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in EMS at the local, regional, and statewide levels, serving on county EMS committees, the Regional EMS Council, and the New York State Emergency Medical Services Council (SEMSCO). He has also served as a board member and chair of the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN).

Through these roles, Lester has worked alongside counties, hospitals, state agencies, and other EMS stakeholders on issues affecting providers and ambulance services throughout New York. As chair of SEMSCO’s Legislative Committee, he has contributed to work involving EMS legislation, regulations, funding initiatives, and reimbursement. His service has also included collaboration with the New York State Office of Emergency Management, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and the New York State Sepsis Committee.

Despite the breadth of his accomplishments, one of the most rewarding aspects of Lester’s career has been watching others grow and succeed. He takes tremendous pride in seeing colleagues develop within the organization and continue building meaningful careers of their own. After decades as an instructor, supervisor, manager, advocate, and mentor, his influence can be seen in generations of EMS professionals.

That legacy extends to Lester’s own family. He is the proud father of two children, both of whom are involved in EMS, and a grandfather of five. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and tackling projects around his home and yard.

From entering EMS as a teenager to becoming a respected leader and advocate with more than four decades of service at Mohawk Ambulance, Lester has devoted his life to strengthening emergency medical services and the people who provide them. Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Lester Freemantle as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Kayla Edgar is a Paramedic Supervisor with Lake Valley EMS, a member of the Priority Ambulance family of companies. Since beginning her public safety career as a volunteer firefighter with the Broadalbin-Kennyetto Fire Department in October 2021, Kayla has demonstrated exceptional initiative, rapid professional growth, and a steadfast commitment to serving others.

Kayla earned her New York State EMT certification in April 2022, followed by National Interior Firefighting Certification that July. Driven to continue advancing her clinical skills, she earned both her New York State and National Registry Paramedic credentials in September 2024.

Even as she pursued her own education, Kayla invested in the development of others. She volunteered as a mentor for SUNY Cobleskill Paramedic students and later represented students through SEMSCO. Since 2025, Kayla has served Lake Valley EMS in operations management and supervisory roles, readily stepping into whatever function the organization has needed. Her practical leadership, versatility, and dependability have earned the confidence of her colleagues.

Kayla also recognizes that some of the most valuable lessons in EMS come from experience. She uses challenging calls as opportunities for reflection and education, helping colleagues strengthen their clinical judgment, learn from difficult situations, and become more confident providers. In spring 2026, she further expanded her ability to educate others by earning Certified Lab Instructor credentials.

Her influence extends beyond clinical and operational leadership to the employee experience and organizational culture. In November 2025, Kayla partnered with the Priority HR team to introduce Nectar, an employee recognition and engagement platform, and she has continued to lead efforts that recognize employees and strengthen engagement throughout the organization.

Through her commitment to lifelong learning, mentorship, employee recognition, operational leadership, and volunteer fire service, Kayla exemplifies the versatility and service-minded leadership that strengthen both EMS organizations and the communities they serve. Lake Valley EMS is proud to recognize Kayla Edgar as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Claire Marie Teal, a lifelong resident of Averill Park, New York, serves as a Lieutenant Paramedic with Mohawk Ambulance, where she has worked for the past three and a half years.

Her path to EMS began with an interest in nursing. She attended nursing school and worked as a technician at Albany Medical Center for approximately two years. Through that experience, she ultimately discovered that EMS was where she felt she belonged and where she could make the greatest impact.

What inspires her most about EMS is the opportunity to help people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. She approaches each call with an important perspective: While certain emergencies may be exciting or interesting from a clinical standpoint, they often represent the worst day of a patient’s life. Keeping that reality at the forefront has shaped the compassionate and thoughtful way she cares for those she serves.

She finds particular meaning in making a positive impact on both a patient’s care and their overall experience. EMS professionals often encounter the same patients regularly because of chronic health conditions, and she values the relationships that develop through those interactions. Being recognized by a patient and seeing the sense of relief that comes from encountering a familiar, trusted caregiver can be just as meaningful as responding to the most serious emergencies.

Outside of EMS, she enjoys cooking and baking, hiking with her dog, and spending time with animals. She also operates a pet-sitting business, which gives her the opportunity to care for and spend time with animals of all kinds.

Through her compassion, clinical service, and commitment to treating every patient with dignity and understanding, she represents the values at the heart of emergency medical services. Mohawk Ambulance is proud to recognize her as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Douglas Milks is being honored as a Star of Life for demonstrating one of the most important skills in emergency medical services—compassion. During a severe winter storm in the Town of Evans, south of Buffalo, Douglas responded to a call despite a driving ban and whiteout conditions. Navigating impassable roads, he reached a critically ill patient in need.

Although the patient later passed away, Douglas’ kindness and empathy left a profound impact. The patient’s spouse shared that Douglas provided not only comfort and dignity to their loved one in their final hours, but also a deep sense of peace to her as she said goodbye. His ability to offer both excellent medical care and heartfelt human connection exemplifies the very best of the EMS profession.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Paramedic Douglas Milks as a Star of Life.

Julie Purick is being recognized for taking the term “commitment to patient care” to a whole new level. One winter morning, Julie responded to a fiery multi-vehicle collision where one of the victims had been engulfed in flames. Without hesitation, she worked alongside Rochester police officers to extinguish the fire and immediately began lifesaving treatment—placing the needs of her patient above her own safety.

Julie’s fearless actions ensured the victim could be stabilized and transported to the hospital. But heroism often comes at a cost. In the process of saving a life, Julie sustained severe respiratory injuries. She was hospitalized, intubated, and placed on a ventilator. Remarkably, just one week later, she recovered, the ventilator was removed, and she returned to duty—stronger and more determined than ever.

Julie’s courage, resilience, and devotion to her patients are not just commendable—they are unforgettable.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Julie Purick as a Star of Life!

Eric Korneffel is an exemplary and highly respected Critical Care Paramedic, whose dedication to Emergency Medical Services spans a remarkable 38 years. He started his career working in NYC and for 26 of those years, he has been a cornerstone of Northwell EMS operations, consistently demonstrating outstanding patient care and unwavering commitment.

Beyond his frontline service, Eric has made significant contributions to the future of EMS through training and education. He is involved in developing and mentoring new generations of responders, a passion further evidenced by the ownership of his own educational company, where he trains not only EMS professionals, but also other healthcare workers. Eric played an instrumental role in helping develop Northwell’s original Community Paramedic program. His distinguished career is also marked by moments of profound courage and resilience; Eric served as a 9/11 responder, providing critical aid during one of the nation’s darkest days, and continued his steadfast service through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Outside of his demanding professional life, Eric is a devoted family man, sharing his life with his wife, Julie, and proudly raising his daughter Lydia and son Adam. When not on duty, he embraces an active lifestyle, finding enjoyment in real estate, water sports, boating, skiing and soccer. Eric Korneffel’s career is a testament to his expertise, leadership, enduring commitment to saving lives, and a balanced life dedicated to both his profession and his loved ones.

Northwell EMS is proud to honor Eric Korneffel as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

John Pagonis, an exemplary EMT, has dedicated himself to Emergency Medical Services with a profound sense of purpose. His commitment to service was deeply forged by the events of September 11th; shifting from a career on Wall Street, John sought a more direct way to contribute, joining his volunteer fire department in 2002 before bringing his expertise to Northwell Health in 2009. This spirit of service is deeply rooted, as John is also a proud Gulf War veteran of the Air Force.

Beyond his frontline duties, John’s dedication extends to shaping the future of EMS. He is actively involved in Northwell’s training department, sharing his knowledge and experience with new generations of providers, he is a road preceptor where he helps new employees bridge the gaps between the classroom and the ambulance. Additionally serves on the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, offering vital support to colleagues after traumatic events.

Among his many impactful moments, a particular highlight was the profound experience of meeting a cardiac arrest survivor he had treated, a powerful reunion that took place at an FDNY service on Randalls Island. This personal connection underscores the life-changing impact of his dedicated work.

When not on duty, John cherishes time spent with his wife and children. He finds relaxation and joy in fishing and spending time at the beach, as well as working around the house. He also enjoys traveling, a destination that stands out as one of his favorites is Diego Garcia Island.

John Pagonis’s journey from a civilian career to a dedicated EMT, fueled by patriotism and a desire to serve, exemplifies the highest ideals of emergency medicine. His unwavering commitment and compassion to patients, colleagues and the communities he serves in make him truly deserving of this recognition.

Northwell EMS is proud to honor John Pagonis as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

Eric Friedell, an exemplary EMT Communications Coordinator, has been a valued member of Northwell Health since 2019, bringing a unique blend of dedication and insight to his role. His journey into Emergency Medical Services, which began in 2017, is a testament to his desire for meaningful service. After a career in mortgages, Eric sought a more rewarding calling, leading him to volunteer as a firefighter in is community before becoming an EMT.

Serving two years on the front lines as an EMT, Eric then transitioned seamlessly to the Communications team, where he has demonstrated remarkable growth and become a trusted resource. His commitment to fostering a supportive environment is evident in his willingness to train peers. He is often described by his peers as a compassionate sounding board, knowledgeable and always there for those who need a listening ear.

Outside of his vital role, Eric finds balance and renewal in nature. He embraces the outdoors as he enjoys hiking and fishing. His adventurous spirit also fuels a long-term goal: to one day complete the entirety of the Appalachian Trail. Eric Friedell embodies the spirit of service, growth, and unwavering support, making him an invaluable asset to the Northwell Health team and a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.

Northwell EMS is proud to honor Eric Friedell as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

Hugh Coley is a dedicated Emergency Medical Technician who began his career in EMS in 2012 and has been a valued member of the Northwell Health team since 2015. Known for his unwavering professionalism and calm demeanor, Hugh is highly respected by both his peers and leadership alike, consistently stepping up to lend a hand to a friend, coworker, or the department whenever help is needed.

His exceptional skills and ability to perform under pressure were recently showcased in a truly extraordinary event: Hugh expertly delivered a baby girl in the front seat of a car, amidst the challenging and often chaotic environment of an FDR entrance ramp.

Beyond his demanding professional life, Hugh is a passionate aquarium hobbyist, meticulously maintaining an impressive 300 gallons’ worth of tanks at home, where the favorite of his aquatic collection is a redtail catfish named Buddha. He enjoys watching football and can be found rooting for the New York Giants. Additionally, he enjoys the thrill and strategy of NASCAR as well as the excitement of monster truck events.

Family holds a central place in Hugh’s life; he treasures time spent at social gatherings and destination reunions, which are especially meaningful given his family is spread across every state along the East Coast and Gulf states. When it comes to comfort food, his go-to is a hearty steak at Texas Roadhouse, though he’s equally content savoring fresh seafood at City Island.

Looking to the future, Hugh dreams of exploring the underwater world through scuba diving and has a distinctive goal for his 60th birthday: celebrating it behind the wheel of a blue 2022 Bentley Coupe with a gray diamond-stitched interior, reasoning that “gray hair qualifies you for that.” Hugh Coley embodies dedication, skill, and a vibrant personal life filled with family, unique hobbies, and exciting aspirations.

Northwell EMS is proud to honor Hugh Coley as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

Kandice Bogatz is an exemplary Paramedic whose dedication to patient care has been evident since she began her EMS career in 2017. Quickly advancing to Paramedic in 2019, she has consistently delivered a high standard of clinical excellence. Since joining Northwell Health in 2021, Kandice has proven to be a versatile and invaluable asset, serving effectively in both the demanding 911 division and the interfacility division.

A powerful testament to her exceptional skill and calm under pressure occurred recently when Kandice and her partner transported a critically ill patient suffering a ruptured thoracic aorta. Prior to transport the patient went into cardiac arrest, where ROSC was achieved. Through their interventions, attention to detail and clinical expertise, they were able to successfully transport the patient to a higher level of care, where they ultimately made a full recovery and were discharged home. Kandice deeply values her time at Northwell, crediting the organization with fostering an environment that has significantly contributed to her growth as a clinician and empowered her to be the best provider she can be. Kandice hopes to continue on her path towards advancing as a clinician and provider in the years to come.

When not on duty, Kandice cherishes time spent with her wife and their 2-year-old daughter. She also maintains an active lifestyle, staying fit through weightlifting and engaging in various sports.

Her dedication, clinical expertise, and profound impact on patient lives, balanced with a vibrant personal life, make Kandice Bogatz a truly deserving individual for this recognition.

Northwell EMS is proud to honor Kandice Bogatz as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating her exceptional contributions to EMS and her community.

Sara Sanders grew up in Ballston Spa, New York, with her parents and two older brothers. From a young age, she felt called to a life of service, first imagining a future as a veterinarian because of her love for animals. While pursuing her college studies, however, she realized her true passion lay in helping people. That realization, combined with encouragement from her mother, a registered nurse, inspired her to pursue a career in emergency medical services.

Sara’s path to EMS was also shaped by personal experience. Diagnosed with Von Willebrand’s disease as a child, she spent significant time in hospitals and was deeply moved by the compassion of the caregivers who supported her. She also recalls the EMS providers who cared for her during medical emergencies and transports, leaving her with a lasting impression of the dedication and kindness of first responders.

Since joining Mohawk Ambulance Service, Sara has found both a career and a family. She credits her colleagues with helping her grow into the clinician she is today and says that EMS has shown her “the worst of the worst and the best of the best,” while surrounding her with an amazing network of support. Looking ahead, Sara plans to further her training by becoming a Paramedic and ultimately hopes to earn her RN license.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is honored to celebrate Sara Sanders as a Star of Life for her compassion, resilience, and commitment to the patients and communities she serves.

Mohawk Ambulance Service proudly recognizes Paramedic Alyssa McMullen as a Star of Life.

Born in Yonkers, New York, and raised in Saratoga Springs, Alyssa began her career in healthcare in 2015 as a Patient Care Technician in the Critical Care Department at Albany Memorial Hospital. While she valued her time caring for critically ill patients, Alyssa soon discovered that the hospital setting was not where she felt most at home.

In December 2018, Alyssa enrolled in the EMT program at Hudson Valley Community College. Like many who find their calling in EMS, she quickly fell in love with the work and never looked back. She went on to complete HVCC’s Paramedic program, graduating in the fall of 2020.

Although she did not come from a family of first responders, Alyssa has always had strong support from her loved ones. Her mother, brother, and stepfather have encouraged her from day one, and she carries with her the memory of her late father, who passed away when she was 17. Alyssa shares that, while her father was not the reason she entered EMS, she believes he would be proud of her accomplishments today.

When she is not working, Alyssa enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her significant other, Justin, as well as her Mohawk Ambulance colleagues, who have become like a second family. She is known among her peers for her compassion, dedication, and warm spirit. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue her Critical Care certification and continue to grow in the career that has become her true passion.

Jeanine Hasenkopf’s EMS journey began long before she earned her first certification. Growing up in Albany, she often visited her mother at work, where she helped dispatch ambulances from a local answering service. Even as a child, she was inspired by her mother’s example of service, which included preparing holiday meals for on-duty ambulance crews and police officers. Jeanine fondly recalls “dispatching Uncle Ray” to calls, an early hint at the career path that would eventually define her.

After raising her four children, Jeanine pursued her long-standing calling to help others by becoming an Emergency Medical Technician at the age of 39. From there, she advanced quickly, completing Critical Care training, earning her Paramedic license, and serving as both a lab and course instructor. She is proud of the many students she has mentored, whom she affectionately refers to as her “kids.”

Although an injury ended her time in the field, Jeanine’s early passion for dispatch naturally resurfaced. Today, she serves as Chief Supervisor Dispatch at Mohawk Ambulance Service, where she ensures operations run smoothly and supports her team with skill and dedication. She reluctantly retired her Paramedic certification but remains deeply connected to EMS and grateful for the many colleagues who have shaped her career.

Outside of work, Jeanine enjoys tending to her garden and caring for the animals on her small hobby farm. She is blessed with four children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Jeanine’s warmth, resilience, and lifelong commitment to service make her an extraordinary member of the Mohawk Ambulance family.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Jeanine Hasenkopf as a Star of Life.

Richard Byerwalters III has dedicated his life to public service, inspired by his father, a Fire Chief and Paramedic, to pursue a career in emergency services. He began volunteering with the Ravena Hose Company and Rescue Squad in 1996 and joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in 1998. After becoming a Paramedic in 2003, Richard served in multiple roles across local agencies—including EMT, Paramedic, and SCT Paramedic—before advancing to his current position as District Chief at Mohawk Ambulance.

Richard holds degrees in Paramedicine from Hudson Valley Community College and Fire Protection Technology from SUNY Schenectady County Community College. Throughout his nearly three decades of service, he has been recognized as a skilled clinician and respected leader who always places patients, colleagues, and community first.

At home in North Greenbush, Richard enjoys life with his wife Melissa—an RN and his former ambulance partner—their son Ricky, now a high school senior, and their pets Maggie, Ezra, and Luca. In his free time, he loves traveling, visiting theme parks (especially Walt Disney World), exploring Lake George, and discovering new corners of the Northeast.

Richard credits his mentors, colleagues, the McPartlon family, Mohawk Ambulance Service, and his loved ones for their unwavering support throughout his career. Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize District Chief and Paramedic Richard Byerwalters III as a Star of Life.