Cynthia Torkelson is a dedicated Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance, deeply committed to the well-being of her patients. She always strives to provide the best care and continuously seeks opportunities to grow in her EMS career. Cynthia’s journey in healthcare began with her service as an EMR for the Monona Volunteer Ambulance in 2015, where she served for eight years before advancing to EMT and later earning her Paramedic certification in 2020.

Originally from Elkader, IA, Cynthia graduated from Central High School and then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology Ecological and Systematics, with minors in German and Natural History and Interpretation, from the University of Northern Iowa. In 2022, Cynthia and her husband, Nick, both joined Gundersen Health System Ambulance in Prairie du Chien, where they have since become an integral part of the EMS community.

Cynthia’s compassionate approach and dedication to her patients have earned her respect among her peers. She is excited to continue her career in healthcare, constantly seeking new experiences and challenges to enhance her skills. Cynthia and Nick reside in Monona, IA, with their two sons, Andrew and Bennet. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community and for the recognition of her efforts.

For nearly 15 years, Sam Sye has been the backbone of Tri-State Ambulance’s fleet and facilities management. His vast expertise in ambulance maintenance and repair has ensured a reliable and efficient fleet of 30 ambulances and support vehicles. Remarkably, until this year, Sam single-handedly maintained the entire fleet, managing everything from preventive maintenance to complete engine overhauls and even bodywork, particularly dealing with frequent deer strikes.

Beyond his work with the fleet, Sam oversees the maintenance of Tri-State Ambulance’s eight facilities. His dedication extends further, as Sam is also a licensed EMT and is always willing to step in and run on an ambulance when the demand for services is high.

Sam’s peers describe him as a dedicated, dependable, and indispensable member of the team. Known for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to patient care, Sam is “virtually never unreachable.” He consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring the fleet is always ready, even on his days off. As one colleague puts it, “Without Sam’s hard work and dedication, we would not be able to drive down the road.”

Sam’s commitment to the safety of the community, his colleagues, and his patients makes him a standout in the field of EMS, and Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to honor him as a 2024 Star of Life.

Mark Schiltz has dedicated over three decades to emergency medical services, beginning his EMS career on May 1, 1988, when he earned his EMT certification and joined the Caledonia Ambulance Service. Currently serving as co-director of the service, Mark continues to make a profound impact on his community. After retiring in 2021 from a 33-year career as a jail administrator, Mark transitioned to full-time work as an EMT with Gundersen Health System Ambulance.

Mark’s dedication to EMS is evident in his compassionate care for patients and his role as a mentor to his colleagues. Known for being an outstanding EMT and a knowledgeable mentor, Mark is also recognized for his work as a CEVO (Coaching the Emergency Vehicle Operator) Instructor, where he shares his expertise and helps ensure the safety and effectiveness of EMS operations.

Mark and his wife, Karen, reside in Caledonia, where they enjoy spending time with their close-knit family, including their two sons, Isaac (Lauren) and Devin (Katie), and their grandson, Holden. The family treasures their time together, particularly on the river in their family-owned pontoon.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication to EMS, Gundersen Health System Ambulance is proud to honor Mark Schiltz as a 2024 Star of Life. His commitment to his patients, community, and colleagues makes him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Loren Mitchell has been a dedicated Paramedic with Tri-State Ambulance for more than ten years. During this time, Loren’s passion and commitment have propelled him into several key roles, including Preceptor, Field Training Officer, Shift Leader, and ultimately Operations Supervisor with a focus on Clinical Services. His clinical expertise, dedication, and compassionate care have set a remarkable standard within Tri-State Ambulance.

Loren consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating unwavering commitment to saving lives and providing top-notch medical care. His ability to remain calm under pressure inspires confidence in both patients and colleagues, making him a trusted and respected figure in the organization.

Known for his infectious laughter and sense of humor, Loren brightens even the most difficult moments, spreading positivity and joy among his peers. He is a practical thinker who goes out of his way to make new employees feel welcome, ensuring that the team functions cohesively and with confidence.

Loren’s patients receive not only the highest quality medical care but also a compassionate touch that helps alleviate fear and anxiety. His exceptional communication skills foster a positive and reassuring environment, bridging the gap between patients, families, and the medical team.

Loren also excels as a leader, readily sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow paramedics and EMTs, which enhances the overall competency of the team. His dedication to ongoing education and training is reflected in his consistently outstanding performance, setting the highest standards of paramedic practice.

In recognition of his tireless efforts, exemplary patient care, and unwavering commitment to the field of paramedicine, it is an honor to have Loren represent Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance as a 2024 Star of Life.

Alissa (Ali) Krisher, a Critical Care Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Wisconsin, has been a dedicated member of the EMS community for over 11 years. Originally from Marion, Wisconsin, a small town of around 1,200 people, Alissa began her EMS journey as an EMT and quickly advanced to become a paramedic. She later obtained her Critical Care Paramedic certification, serving many years responding to 911 calls and providing expert care to her patients.

As part of the Critical Care Team at Superior, Alissa has brought her passion for exceptional patient care to every call. She has also dedicated time outside the ambulance, teaching EMS at a local community college and volunteering at numerous medical events. She holds a special place in her heart for pediatric patients, always striving to provide the highest level of care to the youngest and most vulnerable members of the community.

Outside of her professional life, Alissa is a single mother to her 6-year-old daughter, Aubree, who is the light of her life. Aubree is the driving force behind Alissa’s dedication to EMS, inspiring her to be the best version of herself both as a professional and as a mother. Together, they enjoy fishing, riding their family’s SXS, cooking, playing various sports, and spending time with family. Both share a love for reading, and their bond is central to Alissa’s motivation to succeed.

Alissa is deeply honored to have been chosen as a recipient of the Star of Life award and looks forward to many more years in EMS. She hopes to inspire her daughter—and others—to believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her unwavering dedication to her profession and her commitment to being a role model for Aubree exemplify the values of a true Star of Life.

Brian Keith began his career in the fire service in Arizona, dedicating twenty years to serving his community. Throughout those years, he faced many challenges, but the common denominator in all situations was being part of a team that provided superior care to those in need. Retiring as a Captain/Paramedic, Brian decided to move to Wisconsin to be closer to his family.

Brian is married to his wife Kelly, and together they have a blended family with four children, aged 23 to 31, and two young grandchildren. When not working, Brian enjoys traveling to Arizona and Florida to visit his children and grandkids. He and Kelly are both passionate about golf and enjoy spending time on the course whenever possible. He also loves fishing, kayaking, exploring Wisconsin, and spending time with their two huskies.

Currently working as an EMT in Superior, Wisconsin, Brian and his partner, fellow Star of Life recipient Alissa Krisher, were recognized for their excellent care and assistance provided during an emergent CCT interfacility transport. The patient, who had survived cardiac arrest, required seamless, critical care, and Brian and Alissa’s expertise ensured a smooth transport to a higher level of care. Their teamwork and dedication made a profound impact on the patient’s outcome.

Though unable to attend the Star of Life award ceremony in person, Brian is deeply appreciative of this recognition. He humbly acknowledges the contributions of the first responders and hospital staff involved in the case, emphasizing that saving the patient’s life was a collective effort driven by a shared commitment to providing excellent care.

Jade Calvin has been a committed member of Bell Ambulance since 2017, beginning in the Cadet program and steadily advancing her career. Over the past seven years, she has earned her EMD Dispatch certification, Paramedic license, and Critical Care Paramedic license.

Jade’s dedication to education is evident in her teaching roles. She started as an adjunct instructor for the Cadet program, was promoted to Field Training Officer in 2023, and now serves as a full-time Educator in the Education and Training Department. In this role, she has improved existing processes and developed new content and training opportunities for all skill levels.

Beyond her formal roles, Jade is a respected leader. Her peers frequently seek her guidance, and her positive, approachable demeanor provides essential support during difficult shifts. She is also known for her willingness to cover extra shifts and participate in community outreach.

As a patient care provider, Jade’s commitment to her patients is unwavering, consistently delivering exceptional care. This year, Jade was voted Bell Ambulance Employee of the Year by her peers and is being recognized as a Star of Life by the American Ambulance Association for her outstanding contributions.

Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Gregg Bulman, who has been serving since October 1995. With more than 29 years of experience, Gregg is more than just a dedicated Paramedic—he’s a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His joy and pride in his family are evident whenever he speaks of them.

Gregg’s peers nominated him for the 2024 Star of Life for his exceptional care and compassion. Known for treating every patient like family, Gregg’s kindness and signature smile were repeatedly highlighted in his nominations. As one nominator noted, “When Gregg walks into a room smiling, he brings a smile to everyone’s face.” His positive energy on every shift is inspiring, especially after nearly three decades in EMS.

Gregg is also an outstanding teacher, sharing his extensive knowledge without ever making others feel inferior. Many say they are better EMS providers after working with him. He’s also known for his generosity, often treating his team to his famous “Bulman breakfasts,” complete with eggs, pancakes, sausage, and sometimes even steak.

Outside of work, Gregg enjoys spending time with his family, working on the farm, and playing the occasional round of golf. He exemplifies what a rewarding and successful EMS career looks like.

Nicholas “Nick” Spencer joined Bell Ambulance in 2021 and quickly made a positive impact. Awarded the Employee of the Year in 2022 by his colleagues, his influence was clear. Rising to the role of EMT Field Training Officer, Nick focused on sharing knowledge, often mentoring EMT students in the cadet program.

Staff members appreciate Nick for his willingness to help and educate. His commitment to learning stands out, and he’s always ready to face challenges head-on.

On a personal note, Nick’s longstanding bond with his wife, dating back to their childhood, speaks to his steadfast nature. His service as a youth pastor further enriches his community as well.

Bell Ambulance is proud to honor Nick Spencer as a 2023 Star of Life.

Since joining Bell Ambulance in 2021, Quentin Nation has time and again demonstrated his leadership and commitment to the field. He played a vital role in an innovative collaboration with the Milwaukee Fire Department, helping staff ambulances at firehouses. This dedication to caring for Milwaukee residents earned him the honor of being chosen as the 2021 Employee of the Year by his peers.

Quentin’s expertise was put into practice when he successfully delivered several babies, further affirming his capability and passion. Rising to the role of EMT Field Training Officer, he now ensures that the next generation of EMS providers receive top-tier training.

Quentin’s work is deeply personal. He proudly carries forward the legacy of his mother, who served as a Bell Ambulance EMT two decades ago. Quentin’s unwavering commitment to service and mobile healthcare makes him a standout Star of Life.

Over the span of her EMS career, Jill Roys has held every title available. She started as a driver, then progressed to EMR, EMT, Paramedic, then Critical Care Paramedic. Today, she serves her community as a Lead Paramedic.

Jill greets each workday with a positive, can-do attitude. She is not afraid of a challenge, is always willing to help out, and serves as an extraordinary role model for both new and seasoned field providers. For example, she goes above and beyond in her efforts to assist with the orientation and training of new employees. Onboarding new staff is not always an easy task, but her dedication drives the success of the process.

Jill was born and raised in a rural community in northeast Iowa. She is married to her husband, Shad, who is a Sergeant with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department as well as an ambulance driver. Jill has four kids, two stepkids, and one grandchild. In their free time, the Roys love to ride motorcycles and go boating with family.

Jill Roys is a true team player and a great leader to Gundersen Ambulance. Each day, Jill demonstrates teamwork, integrity, and leadership—all that a Star should be!

Rich began his EMS career in Honolulu nearly 20 years ago. Last year, he returned to his roots when he relocated to Western Wisconsin.

Rich is passionate about mobile healthcare and has embraced the future by spending significant amounts of time mentoring and teaching newer EMS providers.

Rich joined the Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance team less than two years ago. However, he has already had an outsized positive impact due to his many years of Paramedic experience in a larger market. His deep experience coupled with his friendly and helpful personality have greatly helped with the onboarding of new employees and EMS providers.

In his free time, Rich loves the outdoors. He is an avid fisherman and hunter.

Leonard Washington is a 9-year military veteran Combat Lifesaver who earned his associate’s degree from Rock Valley College. Leonard joined Superior’s Illinois Division in 2007 as an EMT, then earned his Paramedic certification in 2009 through the Swedish American program.

In 2010, he left Superior to run 911, but did not stay away long. In 2015, Leonard returned to Superior in the Rockford area and became a Critical Care Medic. When Superior opened its Wisconsin operations, he was one of the first to join.

Leonard has played a huge part in Superior’s success in Wisconsin and has moved all over the state to help start multiple stations in Green Bay, Kenosha, Madison, and finally, Janesville. Leonard is always available to help, and his peers and leaders look to him for guidance.

Leonard has a positive work ethic and is always willing to go above and beyond for his patients and coworkers.

Anna Busse, Critical Care Medic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin, has served her community through EMS for 18 years. In that time, she has worked in private ambulance services handling both emergency and non-emergency response. 

Anna is proud to have been a Critical Care Transport (CCT) Paramedic for 11 years and continues to learn something new every day from patients, staff, and coworkers. In addition to her position in the field, Anna continues to work in a hospital Emergency Room.

Anna joined Superior in 2021 and has been an integral part of Superior’s growth in Wisconsin since then by assisting with opening new stations in various areas throughout the state. Anna is seen as a leader amongst her coworkers as a Field Training Officer and CCT Paramedic who people look to for guidance.

Anna has expressed that her role at Superior is the first time in her career where she feels supported and seen along with feeling like she has all the tools needed to do her job.

Anna’s family is her everything. She says that she wouldn’t be here without the support of her husband along with her mixed bag of family, animals, and friends.

After graduating high school, Russell Johnston attended UW-Milwaukee to become a physical therapist. After a year, Russell was not sure that was the path for him, though he knew he wanted to help people. He decided to leave UW-M and enter into the firefighter program at his local technical college. There he enrolled in an EMT course and, after its completion, decided that EMS was the career path for him.

Russell began his EMS career with Bell Ambulance in 2008. After a few years of ambulance work in Milwaukee, Russell became an EMT Crew Chief. He next joined Bell Ambulance and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Critical Care Transport team. Through his hard work, dedication, and ever-present positive demeanor, Russell became a highly valued member of the transport team. He also advanced to the position of EMT Supervisor, which he excelled at and quickly garnered a positive reputation as a supervisor and caregiver. Russell has the ability to establish a good rapport with both patients and employees, while always maintaining the highest degree of professionalism. As a result, Russell was asked to take on a new challenge within the Client Services Department as a liaison between the company and its facility clients. Soon after, he became the Client Services Supervisor, and, in 2020, was again promoted to Client Services Coordinator.

In his personal life, Russell cares for his rescued English bulldog, Tilly, and gives back by both coaching and refereeing high school powerlifting at the local, state, and even national levels. In fact, Russell is a two-time Powerlifting State Champion!

Russell was voted Employee of the Year and Star of Life in 2019 by his peers.

Noelle Gross will often joke around about the fact that she is short, but she is proof that big things come in small packages and can make a HUGE impact!

Noelle came to Bell Ambulance as an EMT in the fall of 2016. She earned her Paramedic license in 2017, obtained her Critical Care certification through UMBC in 2018, was promoted to Field Training Officer in 2019, and then to Paramedic Supervisor in 2020.

Noelle continues to perform in her role as a Critical Care Paramedic doing ground transfers. She also works in the 911 system in Southeast Wisconsin and has completed the requirements to be a Secondary Dispatcher in the ACE Dispatch Center. She has taken on an additional role as an AHA BLS/ACLS/PALS Instructor, frequently teaching and helping her coworkers with their renewals. Noelle also helps to train new Paramedics and Critical Care Paramedics and is involved with the Education and Training Department. As a Supervisor, she has proven herself to be a dependable and “go-to” person for employees to talk with about calls, any issues they may have, and any problems they may face.

As a result of her constant commitment to her job, her patients, and her colleagues, Noelle was voted by her peers to be Bell Ambulance’s 2020 Employee of the Year.

Noelle and her boyfriend live in West Allis, Wisconsin with their two dogs, Copper and Lady.

Nate began his career at Tri-State Ambulance in 2005. His amazing knowledge and ability to teach led Nate to become an FTO and Preceptor for new employees and students. His leadership skills, as well as his kind, compassionate, and personable attitude, made him a perfect fit for the company’s Shift Resource Officer/Corporal role.

Nate has displayed a level of professionalism, analytical thought, and reliability that is rare not only in the EMS field but in any profession. In his time as a Corporal, he has shown remarkable leadership skills. Nate does not seek out confrontation, but he is never intimidated by difficult conversations that need to happen with his coworkers. The quality bonds that he has built with his colleagues has led to him being affectionately known as “the grandpa” of his shift.

In a Star of Life nomination letter submitted to Tri-State Ambulance on Nate’s behalf, a coworker described Nate’s determination to take time for mental health and to appreciate the moment:

“Nate was a partner of mine on one of my first shifts 14+ years ago. During a particularly stressful day, we were assigned to a posting location. On the way to that location, we stopped near a park bench along the Mississippi River. He insisted that we get out of the truck, and we sat on the bench for five minutes. I don’t remember any words that were said, but the message was clear. Self-care is a skill that can’t be overlooked. Never forgot to appreciate your surroundings and where you are in your life’s journey.”

Nate’s interpersonal strengths are complimented by his work ethic. If there is ever down time during his shift, Nate can often be found fixing medical equipment and performing general station maintenance, often before an issue is even reported.

Callie Revels began her career at Tri-State Ambulance as an EMT in 2015. She grew into the role of Logistics Technician and became a reliable partner for our Critical Care team. While working full-time, Callie received her Paramedic Technical Diploma and transitioned into a full-time Paramedic position. She quickly became a leader amongst her peers and acquired FTO and Preceptor endorsements at the Paramedic level. Her leadership skills and attitude made her an obvious choice for promotion into a Shift Resource Officer role, which gives her the endorsement of Corporal.

Callie continues to impress with her clinical excellence and bedside manner with unwavering compassion. She brings her personality to work, sharing her creativity and witty humor. Not only does Callie care for her patients, but she also cares for her coworkers, leaders, and the company that she works for. Callie displays a high level of integrity, responsibility, and ambition. Her drive is infectious and inspires those around her to work harder and allows for others to perform at their very best. At Tri-State Ambulance we are so lucky that she chose us, and she is our STAR!

Tyler’s EMS journey began in 2011 when he began a degree in Med/Fire Rescue at Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown, SD. After graduating in 2013, he began working as an EMT with Brookings Health Systems Ambulance in Brookings, SD.

In 2015, Tyler began Paramedic school at Avera McKennan School of EMS in Sioux Falls, SD, and finished the program in 2016. He continued working in Brookings until the following year, when he left to start work with Gundersen Tri-State Regional Ambulance in Prairie du Chien, WI.

Tyler has been nominated as a 2022 Star of Life for his sincere passion for EMS, as well as his dedication to his patients and colleagues. He is always willing to lend a hand with any project, and has been an invaluable mentor and friend to new employees.

Tyler’s hobbies and interests include hunting, fishing, boating, football, baseball, and traveling with his family and friends.

Brittney has served as an EMT for Tri-State Ambulance for nearly three years while simultaneously completing her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science.

In addition to work and school, Brittney heads the La Crosse community’s Stop the Bleed (STB) initiative, and has trained hundreds of community members on life-saving bleed control care. She also put together STB kits for the region, which were disseminated to first response and fire agencies, as well as to more than 100 AED enclosures throughout the area. 

Brittney has gone above and beyond her EMT role, and has been able to juggle working countless hours on an ambulance while attending school and enhancing her community. She is a go-getter and is always willing to go the extra mile for her patients and colleagues.