Va. paramedic receives 'Star of Life' award

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) paramedic Tiffany Samuels has received an American Ambulance Association's (AAA) Star of Life award for her leadership in clinical excellence and exceptional training for new EMS field personnel.

The Stars of Life awards, presented at AAA's Stars of Life Celebration April 11-13 in Washington, D.C., honor remarkable ambulance service professionals from around the nation who truly stand out and represent excellence in their field. All who receive this award are nominated by their peers.

Samuels has been with RAA since 2008 where she currently serves as a paramedic field training officer and chair of the RAA Clinical Services Committee. After graduating high school, Samuels was briefly employed in the banking industry before beginning her EMS career with the Richmond Ambulance Authority. In 2008, her EMS career started at an entry level position within the Logistics Department as a vehicle service technician. 

She has worked very conscientiously, entering each new position with an undeniable passion. Samuels' dedication and focus ensured she was confident and proficient at current certification and skill level before progressing through the organization to her position as a paramedic — field training officer. In this role, she takes great effort and shows immense pride in teaching new employees how to provide world-class EMS.

"Tiffany is a delight to work with," said Wayne Harbour, chief clinical officer for the Richmond Ambulance Authority. "She continues to be a valuable asset to RAA not only by the dedication with which she carries out normal day-to-day duties, but also by the many contributions she makes while serving on various committees. She helps shape the clinical direction of the agency by serving as chairperson of Clinical Services Committee."

Last year, Samuels received the 2015 RAA Medical Director's Award. This prestigious award is presented annually by RAA's internationally-renowned Medical Director, Dr. Joseph P. Ornato, to a paramedic who has demonstrated superior clinical abilities and has also dedicated personal time and effort to ensure RAA remains clinically on the cutting edge of mobile healthcare, not only in Richmond, but also nationally and internationally.

"She is an advocate for her fellow EMS providers while participating on the Wellness Committee, and she has presented many creative ideas to the Scheduling Committee promoting a positive work/life balance," said Chip Decker, CEO of the Richmond Ambulance Authority. "She deserves to be recognized as a Star of Life, and we are proud of her many accomplishments."

Samuels commented, "I am very honored to be selected by Richmond Ambulance Authority to represent them at the Stars of Life Assembly. To be considered with such high regard by my fellow coworkers and supervisors is truly humbling. I strive every day to live up to the reputation that this honor represents and will continue to do so with the pride and joy that comes along with truly loving my career."

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