American Ambulance Association
  • Membership
  • Advocacy
  • Annual Conference
  • Stars of Life
  • Webinars
  • Store
  • Log In
American Ambulance Association
  • Membership
  • Advocacy
  • Annual Conference
  • Stars of Life
  • Webinars
  • Store
  • Log In

Author: Amanda Riordan

Amanda Riordan serves as the Vice President of Membership of the American Ambulance Association. She joined AAA as Director of Membership in May of 2015. She has 15+ years of progressive experience in non-profit operations, membership development, marketing, operations, and credentialing.

Release | EMS Heroes Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life

Written by Amanda Riordan on October 30, 2023. Posted in Stars of Life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Amanda Riordan
703-615-4492
ariordan@ambulance.org

EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life

Washington, DC—Next week, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 128 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2023 Stars at a prestigious event November 6–8.

Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and plaques in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services.

In addition to the Stars, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and Senator Bill Cassidy, MD of Louisiana will be recognized as Legislators of the Year, and 11 United States Senators and 17 Representatives will receive Legislative Recognition Awards for their support of mobile healthcare.

American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock healthcare when it is needed most.” He continued, “Together, we honor this year’s Stars of Life, and thank them for the countless hours of service they have dedicated to their local communities.”

This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:

  • Danny Abalama | B200 Instructor Pilot, Guardian Flight | Anchorage, AK | starsof.life/23abalama
  • Adedeji Adebayo | Paramedic, Chief Supervisor, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23adebayo
  • Tiffany Allen | EMT & Billing Supervisor, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23allen
  • Jacob Ambach | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Spokane, WA | starsof.life/23ambach
  • Marcia Anderson | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview / HealthEast | St. Paul, MN | starsof.life/23anderson
  • Michael Arquette | Operations Supervisor, American Medical Response | Buffalo, NY | starsof.life/23arquette
  • Jack Asbury | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Bushnell, FL | starsof.life/23asbury
  • Gage Askew | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23askew
  • Austin Baffa | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23baffa
  • Sharrie Barnes | Pre-Billing Supervisor, EMSA | Tulsa, OK | starsof.life/23barnes
  • Cynthia Betts | Base Medical Manager, EagleMed | Witchita, KS | starsof.life/23betts
  • Erica Blockman | Clinical Coordinator & Paramedic, Del Norte Ambulance | Crescent City, CA | starsof.life/23blockman
  • Carol Boies | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Northwest | Salem, OR | starsof.life/23boies
  • Jan Brooks | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois | Elmhurst, IL | starsof.life/23brooks
  • Jason Burns | Flight Paramedic, REACH | Salida, CO | starsof.life/23burns
  • Anna Busse | Critical Care Paramedic, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin | Oshkosh, WI | starsof.life/23busse
  • Logan Butts | Emergency Medical Technician, Acadian Ambulance | Jefferson County, TX | starsof.life/23butts
  • Ian Carroll | Flight Nurse, Air Evac Lifeteam | Logan, WV | starsof.life/23carroll
  • Haley Chapko | Paramedic, Medstar Ambulance | Clinton Twp, MI | starsof.life/23chapko
  • Teighlor Clark | Emergency Medical Technician, Priority Ambulance | Newport, TN | starsof.life/23clark
  • Preston Crotwell | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Jackson, MS | starsof.life/23crotwell
  • Christopher Crowell | EMT & Field Supervisor, Cataldo Ambulance Service | Somerville, MA | starsof.life/23crowellc
  • James Dalrymple | Fleet Supervisor, Sunstar Paramedics | Largo, FL | starsof.life/23dalrymple
  • Chalyssa David | Operations Supervisor, Medic Ambulance Service Inc. | Vallejo, CA | starsof.life/23david
  • Barbara Davis | Operations Supervisor, LifeNet, Inc. – Arkansas Division | Malvern, AR | starsof.life/23davis
  • Zachary Dayton | Firefighter Engineer & Emergency Medical Technician, Rural Metro Fire | Mesa, AZ | starsof.life/23dayton
  • Kyle Derr | Firefighter Paramedic, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23derr
  • Samantha DiSilvestro | Paramedic, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Staten Island, NY | starsof.life/23disilvestro
  • Patrick Doyle | Captain & Paramedic, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23doyle
  • Mark Dressel | Emergency Medical Technician, Hunter’s Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23dressel
  • Colin Driscoll | Paramedic, Medstar Ambulance | Clinton Twp, MI | starsof.life/23driscoll
  • David Ebert | Flight Paramedic, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Syosset, NY | starsof.life/23ebert
  • Rebecca Ellis | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23ellis
  • Victoria England | Flight Nurse, REACH | Mather, CA | starsof.life/23england
  • Lilliana Ferguson | Paramedic, Cataldo Ambulance Service | Somerville, MA | starsof.life/23ferguson
  • Richard Fikes | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, MetroCare | Abilene, TX | starsof.life/23fikes
  • Marlon Flanders | Paramedic & Alternate Field Operations Supervisor, Global Medical Response | Trinidad & Tobago | starsof.life/23flanders
  • Larry Fort, Jr. | Specialty Care Transport Paramedic, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23fort
  • Sean Fuller | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | Clackamas, OR | starsof.life/23fuller
  • Karina Galvez-Martinez | Paramedic, MedicWest | North Las Vegas, NV | starsof.life/23galvez-martinez
  • Andrew Goodwin | Engineer & Emergency Medical Technician, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23goodwin
  • Aaron Graves | FPC Base Supervisor, LifeNet, Inc. | Texarkana, TX | starsof.life/23graves
  • Tracey Gray | Director of Education, Jan-Care Ambulance | Beckley, WV | starsof.life/23gray
  • Kelly Hamill | Flight Nurse, Air Evac Lifeteam | Mattoon, IL | starsof.life/23hamill
  • Kyle Hammon | Emergency Medical Technician, Community Care Ambulance Network | Ashtabula, OH | starsof.life/23hammon
  • Andy Hardy | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Athens, TN | starsof.life/23hardy
  • Nicole Hart | Clinical Manager, LifeNet, Inc. – Oklahoma Division | Stillwater, OK | starsof.life/23hart
  • Fidencio Hernandez | Emergency Medical Technician & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | San Jose, CA | starsof.life/23hernandez
  • Victor Hoffer | Paramedic, Falck Northwest | Salem, OR | starsof.life/23hoffer
  • Alison Hoffner | Paramedic, Hunter’s Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23hoffner
  • Luke Jarrell | Paramedic, Pafford EMS of Mississippi | Tunica, MS | starsof.life/23jarrell
  • Emily Kidd | Paramedic II, Emergent Health Partners | Ann Arbor, MI | starsof.life/23kidd
  • Rich King | Paramedic, Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance | La Crosse, WI | starsof.life/23king
  • Matthew Kohl | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Evansville, IN | starsof.life/23kohl
  • Kristine Kokkinos | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | San Diego, CA | starsof.life/23kokkinos
  • Nicole Kueter | Director of Operations, PatientCare EMS | Sioux Falls, SD | starsof.life/23kueter
  • Daniel Lee | Flight Nurse, AirLink/Med-Trans | Klamath Falls, OR | starsof.life/23lee
  • Laura Lingeman | EMS Operations Supervisor, REMSA Health | Reno, NV | starsof.life/23lingeman
  • Richard Majors | Firefighter & Emergency Medical Technician, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23majors
  • Jesse Mascarenas | Flight Nurse, REACH | Salida, CO | starsof.life/23mascarenas
  • Mason Meadows | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23meadows
  • Samantha Migliore | Emergency Medical Technician, Armstrong Ambulance Service | Arlington, MA | starsof.life/23migliore
  • Rosemary Mitts | Lieutenant, Chatham Emergency Services | Savannah, GA | starsof.life/23mitts
  • Daisy Moore | Paramedic, Regional Ambulance Service | Rutland, VT | starsof.life/23moore
  • Joshua Morgan | Paramedic, Southern Oklahoma Ambulance Service | Ardmore, OK | starsof.life/23morgan
  • Cody Nash | Operations Manager & Clinical Services Training Coordinator, Pafford Medical Services, Inc. | Johnson County, AR | starsof.life/23nash
  • Quentin Nation | EMT Field Training Officer, Bell Ambulance | Milwaukee, WI | starsof.life/23nation
  • Daniel Neczek | Operations Supervisor, MedEx Ambulance | Skokie, IL | starsof.life/23neczek
  • Cierra Nixon | Critical Care Paramedic, Acadian Ambulance | Orange County, TX | starsof.life/23nixon
  • Stephanie Nocita | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Monterey, CA | starsof.life/23nocita
  • Sheila Norton | Field Operations Supervisor, Puckett EMS | Austell, GA | starsof.life/23norton
  • Jason Nugent | Paramedic, Puckett EMS | Chattanooga, TN | starsof.life/23nugent
  • Terezia Nutt | Emergency Medical Technician, American Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23nutt
  • Richard Nye | Paramedic, Shoals Ambulance | Bessmer, AL | starsof.life/23nye
  • Kenneth Ortiz Cortez | Emergency Medical Technician, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Staten Island, NY | starsof.life/23ortiz
  • Michael Oseguera | Paramedic, Falck Northern California | Alameda County, CA | starsof.life/23oseguera
  • Kevin Pantaleon | Paramedic, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Syosset, NY | starsof.life/23pantaleon
  • Marco Patino | Paramedic, Education Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois | Elmhurst, IL | starsof.life/23patino
  • Christopher Paul | Paramedic II, Emergent Health Partners | Ann Arbor, MI | starsof.life/23paul
  • Mason Pereira | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23pereira
  • Todd Perry | Critical Care Paramedic & Critical Care Nurse, Rescue Inc. | Brattleboro, VT | starsof.life/23perry
  • Kristina Ploeger | Operations Manager, Metro West Ambulance | Hillsboro, OR | starsof.life/23ploeger
  • Stephanie Rahilly | Supervisor, Mobility Division, Life EMS Ambulance | Grand Rapids, MI | starsof.life/23rahilly
  • Phoenix Alexa Reisner | Emergency Medical Technician, Trans Am Ambulance Services | Olean, NY | starsof.life/23reisner
  • Beth Rimmer | Paramedic Crew Chief, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23rimmer
  • Randall Roberson | Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, Lifeguard | Prestonburg, KY | starsof.life/23roberson
  • Michael Robinson | Paramedic, Medic Ambulance Service Inc. | Vallejo, CA | starsof.life/23robinson
  • John Rossmiller | Paramedic Supervisor, Great Fall EMS | Missoula, MT | starsof.life/23rossmiller
  • Jill Roys | Lead Paramedic, Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance | West Union, IA | starsof.life/23roys
  • Kellie Ruetsch | Paramedic, Regional Operations Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio | Plain City, OH | starsof.life/23ruetsch
  • Hiram Sanchez | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Napa, CA | starsof.life/23sanchez
  • Timothy Sanders | Critical Care Paramedic, Baptist Ambulance | Enid, MS | starsof.life/23sanders
  • Dakota Shadwell | Flight Nurse, Air Evac Lifeteam | Mattoon, IL | starsof.life/23shadwell
  • Jay Shintaku | Firefighter Paramedic, Rural Metro Fire | Tempe, AZ | starsof.life/23shintaku
  • Andrew Smith | Operations Supervisor, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23smith
  • Brian Smith | Operations Supervisor, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23smithbrian
  • Veronica Smith | Supervisor, Control Center, Life EMS Ambulance | Grand Rapids, MI | starsof.life/23smithv
  • Bradley Sparks | Flight Nurse, REACH | Oceanside, CA | starsof.life/23sparks
  • Don Speicher | EMT Advanced, Pawnee Ambulance | Pawnee, OK | starsof.life/23speicher
  • Nicholas Spencer | EMT Field Training Officer, Bell Ambulance, Inc. | Milwaukee, WI | starsof.life/23spencer
  • Rob Spencer | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | Temple, TX | starsof.life/23spencerr
  • Darrell Stanley | Duty Officer, Olympic Ambulance Service, Inc. | Sequim, WA | starsof.life/23stanley
  • Luke Stengler | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | San Diego, CA | starsof.life/23stengler
  • David Swatsenbarg | Supervisor, Pafford Medical Services, Inc. | Haskell County, OK | starsof.life/23swatsenbarg
  • Michael Taboniar | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Lihue, HI | starsof.life/23taboniar
  • Paul Tank | Critical Care Paramedic, Operations Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan | Madison Heights, MI | starsof.life/23tank
  • Don Thomas | Operations Supervisor, Medix Ambulance Service Inc. | Warrenton, OR | starsof.life/23thomas
  • Eric Thompson | Paramedic, Community Care Ambulance Network | Ashtabula, OH | starsof.life/23thompson
  • Anita Torres | Emergency Medical Technician, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | New York, NY | starsof.life/23torres
  • Brandon Trauba | Operations Manager, Lakes Region EMS | North Branch, MN | starsof.life/23trauba
  • Bobbi Tremblay | Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Armstrong Ambulance Service | Arlington, MA | starsof.life/23tremblay
  • Konrad Trzepizur | EMT Supervisor, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | New York, NY | starsof.life/23trzepizur
  • Nicole Tyson | Assistant Revenue Cycle Supervisor, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23tyson
  • Jessica Van Der Merwe | Paramedic, Falck Rocky Mountain | Aurora, CO | starsof.life/23vdm
  • Maria Villasenor | Emergency Medical Technician, Sunstar Paramedics | Largo, FL | starsof.life/23villasenor
  • Aaron Wainwright | Supervisor, North Operations, Life EMS Ambulance | Grand Rapids, MI | starsof.life/23wainwright
  • Leonard Washington | Critical Care Paramedic, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin | Rockford, IL | starsof.life/23washington
  • Bill Weber | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | Lake Havasu City, AZ | starsof.life/23weber
  • Aaron Westervelt | Paramedic, American Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23westervelt
  • Garrett Whisenhunt | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, Metropolitan EMS | Little Rock, AR | starsof.life/23whisenhunt
  • Jeffrey Wilken | Critical Care Paramedic, Operations Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Indiana | LaPorte, IN | starsof.life/23wilken
  • Michael Wilson | Clinical Services Specialist, EMSA | Oklahoma City, OK | starsof.life/23wilson
  • Riley Wolfe | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Redlands, CA | starsof.life/23wolfe
  • Chris Workman | Paramedic, Metropolitan EMS | Little Rock, AR | starsof.life/23workman
  • Danny Workman | Flight Paramedic, REACH | Concord, CA | starsof.life/23workmand
  • Daniel Yandell | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Vancouver, WA | starsof.life/23yandell
  • Zachary Zeiler | Paramedic, EMSA | TULSA, OK | starsof.life/23zeiler

Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Intercontinental Wharf hotel on November 7, 2023 from 7:00–9:00pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.

# # #

About The American Ambulance Association

Caring for People—First.

The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.

Release | EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life

Written by Amanda Riordan on October 16, 2023. Posted in Stars of Life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Amanda Riordan
703-615-4492
ariordan@ambulance.org

EMS Heroes To Be Honored in Washington, DC as 2023 Stars of Life

Washington, DC—This November, the American Ambulance Association (AAA) will recognize extraordinary EMS professionals during the annual Stars of Life celebration. 128 individuals from across the United States will be honored as the 2023 Stars at the November 6–8 event.

Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure. During their time in our nation’s capital, the Stars will receive medallions and plaques in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service. The Stars, accompanied by their families and executive hosts, will also meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to discuss policy issues critical to emergency medical services.

In addition to the Stars, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and Senator Bill Cassidy, MD of Louisiana will be recognized as Legislators of the Year, and 11 United States Senators and 17 Representatives will receive Legislative Recognition Awards for their support of mobile healthcare.

American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work tirelessly to provide round-the-clock healthcare when it is needed most.” He continued, “Together, we honor this year’s Stars of Life, and thank them for the countless hours of service they have dedicated to their local communities.”

This year’s distinguished Stars of Life honorees are:

  • Danny Abalama | B200 Instructor Pilot, Guardian Flight | Anchorage, AK | starsof.life/23abalama
  • Adedeji Adebayo | Paramedic, Chief Supervisor, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23adebayo
  • Tiffany Allen | EMT & Billing Supervisor, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23allen
  • Jacob Ambach | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Spokane, WA | starsof.life/23ambach
  • Marcia Anderson | Critical Care Paramedic, M Health Fairview / HealthEast | St. Paul, MN | starsof.life/23anderson
  • Michael Arquette | Operations Supervisor, American Medical Response | Buffalo, NY | starsof.life/23arquette
  • Jack Asbury | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Bushnell, FL | starsof.life/23asbury
  • Gage Askew | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23askew
  • Austin Baffa | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23baffa
  • Sharrie Barnes | Pre-Billing Supervisor, EMSA | Tulsa, OK | starsof.life/23barnes
  • Cynthia Betts | Base Medical Manager, EagleMed | Witchita, KS | starsof.life/23betts
  • Erica Blockman | Clinical Coordinator & Paramedic, Del Norte Ambulance | Crescent City, CA | starsof.life/23blockman
  • Carol Boies | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Northwest | Salem, OR | starsof.life/23boies
  • Jan Brooks | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois | Elmhurst, IL | starsof.life/23brooks
  • Jason Burns | Flight Paramedic, REACH | Salida, CO | starsof.life/23burns
  • Anna Busse | Critical Care Paramedic, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin | Oshkosh, WI | starsof.life/23busse
  • Logan Butts | Emergency Medical Technician, Acadian Ambulance | Jefferson County, TX | starsof.life/23butts
  • Ian Carroll | Flight Nurse, Air Evac Lifeteam | Logan, WV | starsof.life/23carroll
  • Haley Chapko | Paramedic, Medstar Ambulance | Clinton Twp, MI | starsof.life/23chapko
  • Teighlor Clark | Emergency Medical Technician, Priority Ambulance | Newport, TN | starsof.life/23clark
  • Preston Crotwell | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Jackson, MS | starsof.life/23crotwell
  • Christopher Crowell | EMT & Field Supervisor, Cataldo Ambulance Service | Somerville, MA | starsof.life/23crowellc
  • James Dalrymple | Fleet Supervisor, Sunstar Paramedics | Largo, FL | starsof.life/23dalrymple
  • Chalyssa David | Operations Supervisor, Medic Ambulance Service Inc. | Vallejo, CA | starsof.life/23david
  • Barbara Davis | Operations Supervisor, LifeNet, Inc. – Arkansas Division | Malvern, AR | starsof.life/23davis
  • Zachary Dayton | Firefighter Engineer & Emergency Medical Technician, Rural Metro Fire | Mesa, AZ | starsof.life/23dayton
  • Kyle Derr | Firefighter Paramedic, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23derr
  • Samantha DiSilvestro | Paramedic, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Staten Island, NY | starsof.life/23disilvestro
  • Patrick Doyle | Captain & Paramedic, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23doyle
  • Mark Dressel | Emergency Medical Technician, Hunter’s Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23dressel
  • Colin Driscoll | Paramedic, Medstar Ambulance | Clinton Twp, MI | starsof.life/23driscoll
  • David Ebert | Flight Paramedic, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Syosset, NY | starsof.life/23ebert
  • Rebecca Ellis | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | Orange County, CA | starsof.life/23ellis
  • Victoria England | Flight Nurse, REACH | Mather, CA | starsof.life/23england
  • Lilliana Ferguson | Paramedic, Cataldo Ambulance Service | Somerville, MA | starsof.life/23ferguson
  • Richard Fikes | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, MetroCare | Abilene, TX | starsof.life/23fikes
  • Marlon Flanders | Paramedic & Alternate Field Operations Supervisor, Global Medical Response | Trinidad & Tobago | starsof.life/23flanders
  • Larry Fort, Jr. | Specialty Care Transport Paramedic, Mohawk Ambulance Service | Schenectady, NY | starsof.life/23fort
  • Sean Fuller | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | Clackamas, OR | starsof.life/23fuller
  • Karina Galvez-Martinez | Paramedic, MedicWest | North Las Vegas, NV | starsof.life/23galvez-martinez
  • Andrew Goodwin | Engineer & Emergency Medical Technician, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23goodwin
  • Aaron Graves | FPC Base Supervisor, LifeNet, Inc. | Texarkana, TX | starsof.life/23graves
  • Tracey Gray | Director of Education, Jan-Care Ambulance | Beckley, WV | starsof.life/23gray
  • Kelly Hamill | Flight Nurse, Air Evac Lifeteam | Mattoon, IL | starsof.life/23hamill
  • Kyle Hammon | Emergency Medical Technician, Community Care Ambulance Network | Ashtabula, OH | starsof.life/23hammon
  • Andy Hardy | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Athens, TN | starsof.life/23hardy
  • Nicole Hart | Clinical Manager, LifeNet, Inc. – Oklahoma Division | Stillwater, OK | starsof.life/23hart
  • Fidencio Hernandez | Emergency Medical Technician & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | San Jose, CA | starsof.life/23hernandez
  • Victor Hoffer | Paramedic, Falck Northwest | Salem, OR | starsof.life/23hoffer
  • Alison Hoffner | Paramedic, Hunter’s Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23hoffner
  • Luke Jarrell | Paramedic, Pafford EMS of Mississippi | Tunica, MS | starsof.life/23jarrell
  • Emily Kidd | Paramedic II, Emergent Health Partners | Ann Arbor, MI | starsof.life/23kidd
  • Rich King | Paramedic, Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance | La Crosse, WI | starsof.life/23king
  • Matthew Kohl | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Evansville, IN | starsof.life/23kohl
  • Kristine Kokkinos | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | San Diego, CA | starsof.life/23kokkinos
  • Nicole Kueter | Director of Operations, PatientCare EMS | Sioux Falls, SD | starsof.life/23kueter
  • Daniel Lee | Flight Nurse, AirLink/Med-Trans | Klamath Falls, OR | starsof.life/23lee
  • Laura Lingeman | EMS Operations Supervisor, REMSA Health | Reno, NV | starsof.life/23lingeman
  • Richard Majors | Firefighter & Emergency Medical Technician, Goodyear Fire Department | Goodyear, AZ | starsof.life/23majors
  • Jesse Mascarenas | Flight Nurse, REACH | Salida, CO | starsof.life/23mascarenas
  • Mason Meadows | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23meadows
  • Samantha Migliore | Emergency Medical Technician, Armstrong Ambulance Service | Arlington, MA | starsof.life/23migliore
  • Rosemary Mitts | Lieutenant, Chatham Emergency Services | Savannah, GA | starsof.life/23mitts
  • Daisy Moore | Paramedic, Regional Ambulance Service | Rutland, VT | starsof.life/23moore
  • Joshua Morgan | Paramedic, Southern Oklahoma Ambulance Service | Ardmore, OK | starsof.life/23morgan
  • Cody Nash | Operations Manager & Clinical Services Training Coordinator, Pafford Medical Services, Inc. | Johnson County, AR | starsof.life/23nash
  • Quentin Nation | EMT Field Training Officer, Bell Ambulance | Milwaukee, WI | starsof.life/23nation
  • Daniel Neczek | Operations Supervisor, MedEx Ambulance | Skokie, IL | starsof.life/23neczek
  • Cierra Nixon | Critical Care Paramedic, Acadian Ambulance | Orange County, TX | starsof.life/23nixon
  • Stephanie Nocita | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Monterey, CA | starsof.life/23nocita
  • Sheila Norton | Field Operations Supervisor, Puckett EMS | Austell, GA | starsof.life/23norton
  • Jason Nugent | Paramedic, Puckett EMS | Chattanooga, TN | starsof.life/23nugent
  • Terezia Nutt | Emergency Medical Technician, American Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23nutt
  • Richard Nye | Paramedic, Shoals Ambulance | Bessmer, AL | starsof.life/23nye
  • Kenneth Ortiz Cortez | Emergency Medical Technician, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Staten Island, NY | starsof.life/23ortiz
  • Michael Oseguera | Paramedic, Falck Northern California | Alameda County, CA | starsof.life/23oseguera
  • Kevin Pantaleon | Paramedic, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | Syosset, NY | starsof.life/23pantaleon
  • Marco Patino | Paramedic, Education Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois | Elmhurst, IL | starsof.life/23patino
  • Christopher Paul | Paramedic II, Emergent Health Partners | Ann Arbor, MI | starsof.life/23paul
  • Mason Pereira | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, REACT EMS | Shawnee, OK | starsof.life/23pereira
  • Todd Perry | Critical Care Paramedic & Critical Care Nurse, Rescue Inc. | Brattleboro, VT | starsof.life/23perry
  • Kristina Ploeger | Operations Manager, Metro West Ambulance | Hillsboro, OR | starsof.life/23ploeger
  • Stephanie Rahilly | Supervisor, Mobility Division, Life EMS Ambulance | Grand Rapids, MI | starsof.life/23rahilly
  • Phoenix Alexa Reisner | Emergency Medical Technician, Trans Am Ambulance Services | Olean, NY | starsof.life/23reisner
  • Beth Rimmer | Paramedic Crew Chief, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23rimmer
  • Randall Roberson | Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, Lifeguard | Prestonburg, KY | starsof.life/23roberson
  • Michael Robinson | Paramedic, Medic Ambulance Service Inc. | Vallejo, CA | starsof.life/23robinson
  • John Rossmiller | Paramedic Supervisor, Great Fall EMS | Missoula, MT | starsof.life/23rossmiller
  • Jill Roys | Lead Paramedic, Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance | West Union, IA | starsof.life/23roys
  • Kellie Ruetsch | Paramedic, Regional Operations Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio | Plain City, OH | starsof.life/23ruetsch
  • Hiram Sanchez | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Napa, CA | starsof.life/23sanchez
  • Timothy Sanders | Critical Care Paramedic, Baptist Ambulance | Enid, MS | starsof.life/23sanders
  • Dakota Shadwell | Flight Nurse, Air Evac Lifeteam | Mattoon, IL | starsof.life/23shadwell
  • Jay Shintaku | Firefighter Paramedic, Rural Metro Fire | Tempe, AZ | starsof.life/23shintaku
  • Andrew Smith | Operations Supervisor, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23smith
  • Brian Smith | Operations Supervisor, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23smithbrian
  • Veronica Smith | Supervisor, Control Center, Life EMS Ambulance | Grand Rapids, MI | starsof.life/23smithv
  • Bradley Sparks | Flight Nurse, REACH | Oceanside, CA | starsof.life/23sparks
  • Don Speicher | EMT Advanced, Pawnee Ambulance | Pawnee, OK | starsof.life/23speicher
  • Nicholas Spencer | EMT Field Training Officer, Bell Ambulance, Inc. | Milwaukee, WI | starsof.life/23spencer
  • Rob Spencer | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | Temple, TX | starsof.life/23spencerr
  • Darrell Stanley | Duty Officer, Olympic Ambulance Service, Inc. | Sequim, WA | starsof.life/23stanley
  • Luke Stengler | Emergency Medical Technician, Falck Mobile Health Corp | San Diego, CA | starsof.life/23stengler
  • David Swatsenbarg | Supervisor, Pafford Medical Services, Inc. | Haskell County, OK | starsof.life/23swatsenbarg
  • Michael Taboniar | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Lihue, HI | starsof.life/23taboniar
  • Paul Tank | Critical Care Paramedic, Operations Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan | Madison Heights, MI | starsof.life/23tank
  • Don Thomas | Operations Supervisor, Medix Ambulance Service Inc. | Warrenton, OR | starsof.life/23thomas
  • Eric Thompson | Paramedic, Community Care Ambulance Network | Ashtabula, OH | starsof.life/23thompson
  • Anita Torres | Emergency Medical Technician, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | New York, NY | starsof.life/23torres
  • Brandon Trauba | Operations Manager, Lakes Region EMS | North Branch, MN | starsof.life/23trauba
  • Bobbi Tremblay | Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Armstrong Ambulance Service | Arlington, MA | starsof.life/23tremblay
  • Konrad Trzepizur | EMT Supervisor, Northwell Health System Center for EMS | New York, NY | starsof.life/23trzepizur
  • Nicole Tyson | Assistant Revenue Cycle Supervisor, Mecklenburg EMS Agency | Charlotte, NC | starsof.life/23tyson
  • Jessica Van Der Merwe | Paramedic, Falck Rocky Mountain | Aurora, CO | starsof.life/23vdm
  • Maria Villasenor | Emergency Medical Technician, Sunstar Paramedics | Largo, FL | starsof.life/23villasenor
  • Aaron Wainwright | Supervisor, North Operations, Life EMS Ambulance | Grand Rapids, MI | starsof.life/23wainwright
  • Leonard Washington | Critical Care Paramedic, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin | Rockford, IL | starsof.life/23washington
  • Bill Weber | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, American Medical Response | Lake Havasu City, AZ | starsof.life/23weber
  • Aaron Westervelt | Paramedic, American Ambulance | Meriden, CT | starsof.life/23westervelt
  • Garrett Whisenhunt | Paramedic & Field Training Officer, Metropolitan EMS | Little Rock, AR | starsof.life/23whisenhunt
  • Jeffrey Wilken | Critical Care Paramedic, Operations Manager, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Indiana | LaPorte, IN | starsof.life/23wilken
  • Michael Wilson | Clinical Services Specialist, EMSA | Oklahoma City, OK | starsof.life/23wilson
  • Riley Wolfe | Paramedic, American Medical Response | Redlands, CA | starsof.life/23wolfe
  • Chris Workman | Paramedic, Metropolitan EMS | Little Rock, AR | starsof.life/23workman
  • Danny Workman | Flight Paramedic, REACH | Concord, CA | starsof.life/23workmand
  • Daniel Yandell | Emergency Medical Technician, American Medical Response | Vancouver, WA | starsof.life/23yandell
  • Zachary Zeiler | Paramedic, EMSA | TULSA, OK | starsof.life/23zeiler

Please note that members of the media are welcome to attend the Stars of Life Banquet at the Intercontinental Wharf hotel on November 7, 2023 from 7:00–9:00pm. Interviews with Stars of Life as well as national EMS leaders will be available.

# # #

About The American Ambulance Association

Caring for People—First.

The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering our members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, we have proudly represented those who care for people first.

EMS Profiles | Meet Elissa Schilmeister

Written by Amanda Riordan on October 6, 2023. Posted in EMS Profiles.

Elissa Schilmeister
Paramedic
Westchester EMS
Chappaqua, New York

Share on: Facebook | Instagram | X/Twitter | LinkedIn

How did you come to be in EMS?

I have always been interested in helping others and fascinated by science. I followed a different career path and studied Biodiversity and Conservation Conservation Biology. After working as an Environmental Educator Educator, Volunteer Coordinator, and becoming a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator, I was approached by a member of my local volunteer ambulance agency. I started volunteering and quickly became an EMT and officer. The more involved I became the more I fell in love with EMS.

What do you love about working in EMS?

What I love about EMS is that there is always something new to learn, always a new situation. I like meeting new people and being able to make an immediate difference.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

Ask questions. Make the most of every situation, including interfacility tranfers. Go with your gut feelings.

EMS Profiles | Meet Brett Zingarelli

Written by Amanda Riordan on October 5, 2023. Posted in EMS Profiles.

Brett Zingarelli
Lieutenant
Saint Francis EMS
Wilmington, Delaware

Share on Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter / X

How did you come to be in EMS?

My grandfather passed away from cancer when I was 12 and I wanted to find a way to help people. EMS was the first way I found to help at a young age.

What do you love about working in EMS?

Every day is different. No matter what happens I know that I’ve affected someone’s life for the better when the shift is over.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

There is no other feeling in this world like helping other people. If you come in and do your best every day is rewarding.

Anything else you’d like to say?

There is a place for everyone in EMS. Follow your passions and you will find the career rewarding.

EMS Profiles | Meet Rosetta Scott

Written by Amanda Riordan on October 2, 2023. Posted in EMS Profiles.

Rosetta Scott, NREMT
Emergency Medical Technician
Saint Francis Hospital EMS
Wilmington, Delaware

Share on Facebook | Instagram| LinkedIn | X/Twitter

How did you come to be in EMS?

My father suffered a heart attack at home and as I waited for 911, it felt like forever. I decided I never again wanted to be without the knowledge of how to help others.

What do you like about working in EMS?

I love the opportunity to interact with diversity in our communities. It is an honor to help people of various populations.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

My advice to future EMS professionals is to be easy with yourself and continue to ask questions. Never stop learning, even after you earn your certification.

EMS Profiles | Meet Jarlicia Islandriana Scott

Written by Amanda Riordan on September 29, 2023. Posted in EMS Profiles.

Jarlicia Islandriana Scott
Paramedic
Pafford Emergency Medical Services
Clarksdale, MS

Share on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

How did you come to be in EMS?

I found myself searching for a career in the healthcare field and discovered a local EMT training program. I didn’t know much about EMS at the time I applied. As I got deeper into it, I became more and more interested.  I enrolled in the Paramedic program to further my career and continue my education.

What do you love about working in EMS?

What I love about working in EMS is the thrill and the excitement—the whole experience. I love the fact that I can tell people outside of the profession that I’m a Paramedic.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

Treat each and every patient as if they were your family member.

Anything else you’d like to say?

EMS is a fun and challenging career. It has its moments but every call makes you greater. My primary goal is to provide patients with excellent pre-hospital care.

EMS Profiles | Meet Jameson Fernandez

Written by Amanda Riordan on September 23, 2023. Posted in EMS Profiles.

Jameson Fernandez
Emergency Medical Technician
Cataldo Ambulance
Somerville, Massachusetts

Share this on Instagram | Facebook | X / Twitter | LinkedIn

How did you come to be in EMS?

The light and sirens going by first caught my attention as a young child. That love only grew as I got older. I would watch and ask for all things that had to do with first responding. I loved it all, and imagined serving as police, fire or EMS when I got older. Over time during these growing years I eliminated fire and law enforcement as just not for me. EMS was the winner across the board.

I found myself at the age where I asked, ‘Self, what do you want to do?’ and, ‘What is the career of my dreams?’

The answer was EMS.

What do you love about working in EMS?

What I love about EMS is there is literally never a dull moment! Nothing day is the same, no call will ever be the same. EMS and standing orders are always evolving and trending up. We are always there when you need us.

Do you have any advice for someone considering becoming an EMT or Paramedic?

My advice is to go for it! Buckle up and enjoy one of the most rewarding career paths that can simply not be duplicated in other professions.

I recommend EMS for the skillset development. It hits such a wide variety of life lessons in just one shift. As an EMT, you’ll see the do’s and don’ts to life as a whole, and it gives you the ability to help people from the community.

You are continually educated and truly the sky is the limit in emergency medical services. Being an EMT opens so many doors in so many directions in the medical field. You can start EMS like me from fleet maintenance, where I learned about the vehicles, to a chair car, to communications and dispatch, to the road as an emergency first responder, and then on to an EMT certification. The future is full of next steps, and I’ve already done a lot. You can even get your advanced EMT, then your Paramedic then do a bridge program and go into nursing. The possibilities are endless and attainable.

Anything else you’d like to say?

EMS is the way to go. Get started!

PBS NewsHour | The No Surprises Act left out ground ambulances. Here’s what’s happening now

Written by Amanda Riordan on August 24, 2023. Posted in Advocacy Priorities, Balance Billing, News, Press, Private Insurance.

Thank you to American Ambulance Association Secretary @WayneJurecki for standing up for patients and #EMS providers. @NewsHour #SupportEMS #GAPBAC #AlwaysOpen #NotJustaRide https://t.co/L982QAYr3X @EMS1 @jemsconnect @UKROBL1 @AIMHI_MIH @EMSWorldOFCL

— AmericanAmbulanceAsc (@amerambassoc) August 24, 2023

 

Read the full article

2023 Stars of Life Nominations Are OPEN!

Written by Amanda Riordan on August 10, 2023. Posted in Stars of Life.

Honor YOUR Stars in Washington, DC

The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession.

Recognize the unsung heroes at your ambulance service—nominate EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and other EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by executive hosts, are celebrated in a series of events in our nation’s capital.

Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.
Nominate a Star of Life
American Ambulance Association
Stars of Life 2023
November 6–8, 2023
Intercontinental Wharf | Washington, DCNominations close October 10, but early nomination is suggested as space is limited.

Eligibility—Who Are Our Stars?

All employees of ambulance services are eligible for nomination for the AAA Stars of Life program. All nominees are recognized as Stars. Examples of individuals commonly nominated include:

  • State-level Star of Life or other award program recipient
  • Employee of the year
  • On-duty or off-duty services above and beyond the call of duty such as special rescue or setting of significant records
  • Notable community contributions such as volunteer work, local leadership, partnerships with other organizations or agencies
  • Significant community distinction or honors related to ambulance, public safety, public health or health care services
  • Consistent services record which exemplifies your ambulance operation’s mission

Please note that we encourage individuals being honored poshumously to be recognized through the National EMS Memorial Service.

2023 Registration Rates

Registration opens in July, and closes October 10. Late submissions cannot be accomodated.

  • Stars – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Hosts – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Guests – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Banquet Only – $199 member / $398 non-member
Stars of Life Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations received in writing at hello@ambulance.org by September 1, 2023 will be refunded less a 25% penalty. Cancellations received from September 2 to October 1, 2023 will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.  No refunds will be issued after October 2, 2023. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Recognize Women Living Legends

Vanguards honor women leaders with 35+ years of extraordinary service to mobile healthcare.Nominate a Vanguard!››
Download 2023 Photo Slide PDF››

Know a Rising Advocacy Leader?

Nominations are also open for the AAA EMSNext leadership and education program focused on nurturing a new generation of EMS association and policy leaders.

Learn More››
Facebook
Twitter
Link
LinkedIn
Copyright © 2023 American Ambulance Association, All rights reserved.

2023 Stars of Life Nominations Are OPEN!

Written by Amanda Riordan on July 17, 2023. Posted in Stars of Life.

Honor YOUR Stars in Washington, DC

The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession.

Recognize the unsung heroes at your ambulance service—nominate EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and other EMS professionals for this year’s class of Stars. Stars and their guests, accompanied by executive hosts, are celebrated in a series of events in our nation’s capital.

Stars of Life honors the contributions of these heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.
Nominate a Star of Life
American Ambulance Association
Stars of Life 2023
November 6–8, 2023
Intercontinental Wharf | Washington, DC

Nominations close October 10, but early nomination is suggested as space is limited.

Eligibility—Who Are Our Stars?

All employees of ambulance services are eligible for nomination for the AAA Stars of Life program. All nominees are recognized as Stars. Examples of individuals commonly nominated include:

  • State-level Star of Life or other award program recipient
  • Employee of the year
  • On-duty or off-duty services above and beyond the call of duty such as special rescue or setting of significant records
  • Notable community contributions such as volunteer work, local leadership, partnerships with other organizations or agencies
  • Significant community distinction or honors related to ambulance, public safety, public health or health care services
  • Consistent services record which exemplifies your ambulance operation’s mission

Please note that we encourage individuals being honored poshumously to be recognized through the National EMS Memorial Service.

2023 Registration Rates

Registration opens in July, and closes October 10. Late submissions cannot be accomodated.

  • Stars – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Hosts – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Guests – $549 member / $1098 non-member (+$150 after October 1)
  • Banquet Only – $199 member / $398 non-member
Stars of Life Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations received in writing at hello@ambulance.org by September 1, 2023 will be refunded less a 25% penalty. Cancellations received from September 2 to October 1, 2023 will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.  No refunds will be issued after October 2, 2023. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Recognize Women Living Legends

Vanguards honor women leaders with 35+ years of extraordinary service to mobile healthcare.Nominate a Vanguard!››
Download 2023 Photo Slide PDF››

Know a Rising Advocacy Leader?

Nominations are also open for the AAA EMSNext leadership and education program focused on nurturing a new generation of EMS association and policy leaders.

Learn More››
Facebook
Twitter
Link
LinkedIn
Copyright © 2023 American Ambulance Association, All rights reserved.

2024 EMSNext Nominations Now Open!

Written by Amanda Riordan on July 6, 2023. Posted in 40 Under 40, AAA HQ, Annual Conference & Tradeshow, Awards.

EMSNext Nominations Due January 1, 2024!

Know a wonderful rising leader you’d like to recognize as the future of EMS? Nominations are open for EMSNext (formerly Mobile Healthcare 40 Under 40)!

Selection Process & Criteria

2023 EMSNext Honorees

Honorees will be selected based ONLY on the information provided in the nomination form below. Nominees should have contributed to their organization, state ambulance association, AAA, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession in an extraordinary way beyond faithful completion of job duties. Please be sure to include detail about the nominee’s impact to date and future promise.

Please note that nominees must be under 40 in the year of nomination OR from a diverse background. No specific job role or title is required for consideration.

EMSNext Program Description

EMSNext is a recognition and development program of the American Ambulance Association. The goal of this program is to recognize up-and-coming leaders within EMS and support them in building their networks and leadership skills and encouraging them to get involved in the next level of EMS leadership. This program is a way for organizations to fully engage their rising leaders through company-sponsored travel and participation in additional learning and networking events throughout the year. Program participation includes:

    • Complimentary conference registration for the 2024 AAA Annual Conference & Tradeshow (April 22-24 in Nashville, Tennessee)
    • Recognition of the EMSNext recipients during the Conference
    • Mentor pairing and additional professional development opportunities
    • Encouraged to attend AAA Board Meetings throughout the year
    • Encouraged to attend another AAA event with our leaders in 2024

AAA’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Updated in August 2022

Caring for People—Together.
The American Ambulance Association board and its members are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to every patient regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and/or on the basis of differing ability. We dedicate time, thought, and resources to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the Emergency Medical Services workforce and leadership. Together, we save and sustain the lives of community members.

2024 EMSNext Nominations

  • Nominator Contact Details

    Information about the person SUBMITTING the nomination.

  • Nominee Details

    Information about the person BEING NOMINATED for EMSNext
  • The nominee must be 40 or younger on December 31 of the year of nomination OR from a diverse background
    MM slash DD slash YYYY
  • Nominee Name
  • Nominee Email
  • Nominee address
  • Nominee Job Title
  • Nominee Company Name
  • Nominee Headshot
    Accepted file types: jpg, gif, png, Max. file size: 88 MB.
  • Optional, but strongly encouraged
    Max. file size: 88 MB.
  • Ex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandariordan/ Optional, but strongly encouraged, ESPECIALLY if resume is not included.
  • Please be sure to check spelling and grammar before submission as in most cases winner's bios will be posted as submitted.
  • Please provide a detailed reason for nominating this person.
  • Nominee Twitter link. Ex: https://twitter.com/AmandaPRiordan
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

2024 Vanguard Nominations Open Through January 1

Written by Amanda Riordan on July 6, 2023. Posted in AAA HQ, Annual Conference & Tradeshow, News, Press.

Nominations Are Due January 1, 2024!

Recognize woman leaders with at least 35 years of service in EMS! Nominations are open for the second annual American Ambulance Association Vanguard Awards! The Vanguards honor those who blazed the trail for fellow women EMS professionals.

The Vanguards are presented in collaboration with our colleagues from Women in Emergency Services (WiES), a newly-founded organization dedicated to supporting and advancing women’s careers in the emergency services industry through empowerment, networking, mentorship, and education.

2023 American Ambulance Association Vanguard Awards

Selection Process & Criteria

To submit a 2024 Vanguard nomination, please complete the form below before January 1, 2024.

Honorees will be selected based ONLY on the information provided in their nomination form. Nominees should have contributed to their organization, state ambulance association, AAA, other professional associations, and/or the EMS profession in an extraordinary way beyond faithful completion of job duties. Please be sure to include detail about the nominee’s impact to date.

Please note that nominees must be women with 35+ years of service in the EMS industry. No specific job role or title is required for consideration.

Recognition

Honorees will be recognized at the American Ambulance Association President’s Reception award ceremony, and will be recognized on the AAA and WiEMS websites and social media platforms. Winners will also receive complimentary registration to the AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show.

2024 AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show
Gaylord Opryland
April 22–24, 2024
Nashville, TN

2024 Vanguard Awards Nominations

  • Nominator Contact Details

    Information about the person SUBMITTING the nomination.

  • Nominee Details

    Information about the person BEING NOMINATED
  • Nominee Name
  • Nominee Email
  • Nominee address
  • Nominee Job Title
  • Nominee Company Name
  • HIGH RESOLUTION Nominee Headshot of at least 500x500 px
    Accepted file types: jpg, gif, png, Max. file size: 88 MB.
  • Optional, but strongly encouraged
    Max. file size: 88 MB.
  • Ex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandariordan/ Optional, but strongly encouraged, ESPECIALLY if resume is not included.
  • Please be sure to check spelling and grammar before submission as in most cases winner's bios will be posted as submitted.
  • Please provide a detailed reason for nominating this person. Please include her length of service in EMS (35+ years required.)
  • Nominee Twitter link. Ex: https://twitter.com/AmandaPRiordan
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

2024 Annual Conference Speakers Wanted!

Written by Amanda Riordan on July 6, 2023. Posted in AAA HQ, Annual Conference & Tradeshow.

2024 Annual Conference & Trade Show Call for Presentations

Thank you for your interest in speaking at the AAA Annual Conference and Trade Show.

2024 AAA Annual Conference & Trade Show
Gaylord Opryland
April 22–24, 2024
Nashville, TN

The deadline for submissions is January 1, 2024. Applicants may submit up to three proposals. Audience involvement is highly encouraged.

Please be advised that participation as a presenter is strictly on a voluntary basis. Up to two speakers per selected session will receive complimentary registration to the conference. However, AAA is unable to pay speaker fees or travel and lodging expenses.
Thank you for your interest in sharing your expertise with your peers!

  • AAA membership is required to present at our conference.
  • 50–75 word description of your proposed session for marketing purposes. Please include concrete, actionable takeaways your participants will be able to apply immediately.
  • For ALL co-presenters, please provide:
    Name
    Job TItle
    Company Name
    Email Address
    Please note that a maximum of two speakers per session will receive complimentary conference registrations.
  • Is this content geared to those who are new to the topic, intermediate, or advanced?
  • Select the tracks most appropriate for this proposed session.
  • If you have not recently presented at an American Ambulance Association event, please list your past speaking experience, including event names and dates.
  • Please provide a brief professional biography of yourself.
  • If you have not recently presented at an AAA event, please provide a HIGH RESOLUTION headshot of at least 500x500px
    Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif.
  • Ex: https://twitter.com/amerambassoc
  • Ex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandariordan/
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Photos from AAA 2023

Written by Amanda Riordan on July 5, 2023. Posted in 40 Under 40, Annual Conference & Tradeshow, Awards, Vanguard Award.

Check out photos from the American Ambulance Association 2023 Annual Conference & Trade Show, including the Vanguard and EMSNext Awards, on Facebook!

View & Share Photos

All Clear Foundation Names Mike Taigman Chairman of the Board

Written by Amanda Riordan on May 2, 2023. Posted in AAA HQ, Employee Wellness, Human Resources, News, Press.

This appointment demonstrates its commitment to serving those in emergency services with the wellness resources they need, when they need them, free of charge

Denver, Colorado, USA – All Clear Foundation (ACF), a national 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to improving the wellbeing and longevity of Emergency Responders, including Healthcare Workers, and their families, has appointed Mike Taigman Chairman of the Board.

“My life’s purpose–for my entire life–has been to recognize suffering in all its forms and do something about it. All Clear Foundation’s mission is in complete alignment with that passion,” says Taigman. “I am humbled and excited by this opportunity.”

A Proven Track Record

Taigman brings a wealth of experience to this role. He spent decades on the streets of Denver as a paramedic, honing his “people first” approach. The author of more than 600 articles in professional journals, Taigman is a recognized expert in the areas of quality improvement, data science, leadership, and EMS. He serves as adjunct faculty at University of Maryland, Baltimore County and UCSF, and he is the Improvement Guide at FirstWatch, a data analytics firm dedicated to quality improvement in public safety.

“We are thrilled to have Mike on board,” says Rhonda Kelly, the foundation’s Executive Director. “His passion for improving quality of life among Emergency Responders is sincere and his track record is unparalleled. We appreciate his focus on the full spectrum of wellness supports from proactive education to crisis intervention.  And we are very excited about his commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices to drive improvement.”

ACF relies upon the power of strategic partnerships to affect change and appreciates Taigman’s extensive experience building and growing partnerships in the Responder wellness world. In addition to facilitating development of EMS Agenda 2050, a vision EMS 20 years into the future, he is the author of Super-Charge Your Stress Management in the Age of COVID and is regular faculty at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.

 

A Vision Forward

Among his top priorities, Taigman looks forward to ensuring the sustainability of All Clear’s mission. “My hope is to support the ongoing mission and build sustainable support and funding for the foundation so we can continue this important work,” says Taigman. “There’s so much evidence that being involved in emergency services and healthcare takes a toll on the folks doing the job.”

“All Clear Foundation has pulled together an ecosystem of resources that is unmatched and provides them free of charge to Emergency Responders, their agencies, and their families. Securing reliable support for these efforts is essential and ongoing.”

A Clear Need

The need is there. One study found Emergency Responders suffer from depression and PTSD at five times the rate of the general population. Among the many challenges inherent in the work are frequent trauma exposure, rotating shift schedules, limited agency support, amplified stress on the family and other relationships, and physical injury.

“Too many Emergency Responders have paid for their service with their lives, either in quality or longevity,” says Director Kelly. “The barriers of shame, stigma, lack of local resources, and lack of finances have kept many from accessing the supports they deserve and need. This is where All Clear Foundation steps in. Built by Responders, for Responders, we are here to help across the domains of wellness: mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual.”

Supporting First Responders

All Clear Foundation provides an array of easily accessible and navigable wellness solutions at no cost to agencies or participants. ResponderStrong, its mental health initiative, has had a significant impact nationally and continues to grow with hybrid-format educational content and digital tools. Partners organizations include Global Medical Response, FirstNet-Built with AT&T, Abbott Nutrition, The Center for Relationship Education, IndyCar, IPSDI, Sigma Tactical Wellness, and NERPSC.

“The work All Clear and its partner organizations provide is saving lives,” says Taigman. “But, beyond that, it’s making Emergency Responders happier, healthier, and more resilient. This is good news for all of us.”

 

###

ABOUT FIRSTWATCH

Since 1998, FirstWatch has been helping EMS agencies monitor real-time situational awareness, operational performance, clinical quality and performance improvement measures, as well as health surveillance, bioterrorism or other potentially concerning incidents. FirstWatch is designed to aggregate data from your agency’s CAD, ePCR, ProQA, RMS, Hospital ED, Billing and Phone system into a single, automated real-time view. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.net.

ABOUT ALL CLEAR FOUNDATION

Through assessing community wellness needs, priorities, and barriers, All Clear Foundation, a 501c3 public charity, leverages the power of strategic partnerships to create easily accessible and navigable systems of wellness solutions, improving the wellbeing and longevity of those who serve our communities. In 2019, ACF was founded by Global Medical Response as an autonomous public charity designed to serve and benefit the national Emergency Responder community. As one of the largest employers of Public Safety personnel in the U.S., GMR believes it has a duty to support the overall wellness of all Responders nationally. All Clear Foundation’s mission is to improve the overall wellbeing and longevity of those who serve our communities in times of need. We believe that healthy emergency responders contribute to healthier communities. For more information, visit www.allclearfoundation.org.

For more information, please contact Crawford Coates at ccoates@firstwatch.net.

GAPBAC | First Meeting May 2 & 3

Written by Amanda Riordan on April 28, 2023. Posted in Advocacy Priorities, Balance Billing, Reimbursement.

This content is for AAA members only.

Please either Log In or Join!

2023 Vanguard Award Winners Announced

Written by Amanda Riordan on March 30, 2023. Posted in AAA HQ, Annual Conference & Tradeshow, Awards, Vanguard Award.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Amanda Riordan
Vice President, Membership
ariordan@ambulance.org

American Ambulance Association Announces Inaugural Vanguard Award Winners

Washington D.C. – The American Ambulance Association (AAA) is proud to announce the winners of the inaugural Vanguard Awards. The Vanguards honor those who blazed the trail for fellow women EMS professionals, and the 23 winners represent a diverse group of dedicated individuals who have made significant contributions to mobile healthcare.

“We are thrilled to recognize these trailblazers who have paved the way for women in EMS,” said Randy Strozyk, President of AAA. “Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence have not only elevated their own careers but have also helped to advance the entire profession.”

Lori Burns | National Vice President of Learning, Global Medical Response | Denver, Colorado
Denise Carson | President, Med-Tech EMS | Morrilton, Arkansas
Sherry Carson | President, Monticello Ambulance Service, Inc. | Monticello, Arkansas
Diana Cataldo | Founder/Treasurer, Cataldo Ambulance Service, Inc | Middleton, Massachusetts
Cindy Elbert | President, Cindy Elbert Insurance Services, Inc. | Peoria, Arizona
Linda Frederiksen | Executive Director, MEDIC EMS | Davenport, Iowa
Dia Gainor | Executive Director, National Association of EMS Officials (NASEMSO) | Falls Church, Virginia
Debby Gault | Retired/Consultant, AMR | Waterford, Wisconsin
Dr. Marianne Gausche-Hill | Medical Director, Los Angeles County EMS Agency | Santa Fe Springs, California
Blanche Hill | Co-Founder, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc. | Elmhurst, Illinois
Kristine Kern | Paramedic Professor, San Jacinto College | San Jacinto, Texas
Susan Long | Vice President, Emergency Medical Services, Allina Health EMS | St. Paul, Minnesota
Tracey Loscar | Deputy Director, MatSu Borough EMS | Palmer, Alaska
Pam McBeath | President/ CEO, Balentine Ambulance Service Inc. | Shreveport, Louisiana
Susan McHenry | EMS Director (Retired), State of Virginia | Highlands Ranch, Colorado (Honored Posthumously)
Carol Meyer | Director, Government Relations, McCormick Ambulance | Compton, California
Carol Pafford | Vice President Emeritus, Pafford Medical Services | Hope, Arkansas
Jamie Pafford-Gresham | President/CEO, Pafford Medical Services | Hope, Arkansas
Helen Pierson | Chief Executive Officer, Medic Ambulance | Vallejo, California
Julie Rose | Director of Policy & Advocacy, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc. | Ashtabula, Ohio
Lauren Rubinson | Founder and CEO, MedEx Ambulance Service | Skokie, Illinois
Janet Smith | Owner and President, On Assignment | San Diego, California
Debbie Vass | Chief Administrative Officer, Sunstar Paramedics | Largo, Florida

The Vanguard Awards are presented in collaboration with Women in Emergency Services (WiES), a newly-founded organization dedicated to supporting and advancing women’s careers in the emergency services industry through empowerment, networking, mentorship, and education.

The winners will receive complimentary registration to the American Ambulance Association Annual Conference & Trade Show in Las Vegas on June 26-28, 2023. They will also be recognized at the President’s Reception on the evening of June 27, and their profiles will be featured on the AAA website and social media.

“The Vanguard Awards celebrate the accomplishments of women who have broken down barriers and opened doors for future generations,” said Strozyk. “We are proud to honor their legacy.”

About the American Ambulance Association

The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering its members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, AAA has proudly represented those who care for people first.

3/16 | CMS Ambulance Open Door Forum

Written by Amanda Riordan on March 8, 2023. Posted in Regulatory.

The next CMS Ambulance Open Door Forum scheduled for:

Thursday, March 16, 2023
2:00pm-3:00pm PM Eastern Time (ET);

This call will be Conference Call Only.
To participate by phone:
Dial: 1-888-455-1397 & Reference Conference Passcode: 4325849

Conference Leaders: Jill Darling, Maria Durham

**This Agenda is Subject to Change**
I. Opening Remarks
Chair- Maria Durham, Director, Division of Data Analysis and Market Based Pricing
Moderator – Jill Darling (Office of Communications)

II. Announcements & Updates
• Medicare Ground Ambulance Data Collection System
(GADCS): Top 5 Tips for Selected Organizations in Year 1, 2, 3, and 4
Slide presentation will be available on CMS’ Ambulances
Services Center website: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/ambulance-fee-schedule-zipcode-files/ambulance-events
Please see the following information regarding COVID-19
PHE Updated Guidance for Ambulance Organizations:
Public Health Emergency (PHE) 1135 Waivers: Updated
Guidance for Providers

III. Open Q&A
**DATE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE**
Next Ambulance Open Door Forum: TBA
ODF email: AMBULANCEODF@cms.hhs.gov

———————————————————————
This Open Door Forum is open to everyone, but if you are a member of the Press,
you may listen in but please refrain from asking questions during the Q & A portion of
the call. If you have inquiries, please contact CMS at Press@cms.hhs.gov. Thank
you.

Open Door Participation Instructions:
This call will be Conference Call Only.
To participate by phone:
Dial: 1-888-455-1397 & Reference Conference Passcode: 4325849

Persons participating by phone do not need to RSVP. TTY Communications Relay
Services are available for the Hearing Impaired. For TTY services dial 7-1-1 or 1-
800-855-2880. A Relay Communications Assistant will help.
Instant Replay: 1-800-814-6745; Conference Passcode: No Passcode needed
Instant Replay is an audio recording of this call that can be accessed by dialing 1-
800-814-6745 and entering the Conference Passcode beginning 1 hours after the call
has ended. The recording is available until March 18, 2023, 11:59PM ET.
For ODF schedule updates and E-Mailing List registration, visit our website at
http://www.cms.gov/OpenDoorForums/.
Were you unable to attend the recent Ambulance ODF call? We encourage you to
visit our CMS Podcasts and Transcript webpage where you can listen and view the
most recent Ambulance ODF call. The audio and transcript will be posted to:
https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-andEducation/Outreach/OpenDoorForums/PodcastAndTranscripts.html.
CMS provides free auxiliary aids and services including information in accessible
formats. Click here for more information. This will point partners to our CMS.gov
version of the “Accessibility & Nondiscrimination notice” page. Thank you.

This Week’s Savvik Deals

Written by Amanda Riordan on February 8, 2023. Posted in AAA HQ, News, Operations.

Apply for this Grant!
Shop TKK
Cost Collection is coming. Is your organization prepared?

Join the workshop and stay tuned for more!

The Cost Collection workshops are coming to

  • St. Charles, MO – February 8th 2023
  • Little Rock, AR – February 9th, 2023
  • Oklahoma City, OK – February 15th, 2023
  • Myrtle Beach, SC – March 1st, 2023
  • Wilmington, NC – March 8th, 2023
  • North Canton, OH – March 25th, 2023
We’ll see you there!
Register for a Webinar
Request FREE Access to the Amber Software
Select the product below that you would want to purchase on a bulk buy sale!
Backboards
Gloves
EMS Pants
AED’s
Med Bags
Ventilators
Hi-Vis Jackets
Other

Facebook
Linkedin
Youtube
Website

About us
Savvik is a non-profit formed to reduce financial impact within the Public Safety industry. Our mission is to provide members with a mechanism to achieve cost reductions – valuing quality supplies and equipment for members at the industry’s best prices.
—
If you are hearing from us for the first time in a while, it’s because you are a saved account in our system.
To update your preferences, you can unsubscribe below.

CMS Webinar on Addressing Healthcare Inequities

Written by Amanda Riordan on January 18, 2023. Posted in Regulatory.

From: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Date: January 18, 2023 at 8:01:13 AM EST

CMS Logo
Measure Development Education
& Outreach Series Announcement

2023 CMS MMS Public Webinars

From Data to Action: How CMS and its Stakeholders are Addressing

Inequities in Healthcare
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to invite the public to attend the upcoming webinar “From Data to Action: How CMS and its Stakeholders are

Addressing Inequities in Healthcare.” Join us for a discussion of the CMS Health Equity Framework and how key stakeholders are leveraging changes in data science and quality measurement to drive progress toward more equitable care for all.

  • Tuesday, February 28, 2023, from 3 – 4:00 p.m. (ET) (Register here)
  • Wednesday, March 8, 2023, from 12 – 1:00 p.m. (ET) (Register here)

Have questions? Please contact MMSSupport@battelle.org.
Contact MMS Support
Have questions about the Measure Management process? We’re here to help!
CONTACT SUPPORT
Connect
with CMS
Twitter  Youtube  Linkedin
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4

Stay In Touch!

By signing up, you agree to the AAA Privacy Policy & Terms of Use. 

PO Box 96503 #72319
Washington, DC 20090-6503
hello@ambulance.org

Customer Service

Email hello@ambulance.org to open a support ticket for friendly assistance!

Media Inquiries

media@ambulance.org (Press only, please.)

Join Now
Log In

© 2023 American Ambulance Association, Inc.

  • Sign in

Forgot your password?

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive mail with link to set new password.

Back to login