Student Rescue Squad

I never stop being impressed with the service-mindedness of our students.  Read Art Graham’s note below:

I would like to draw your attention to a group of students who provide an invaluable service to the Whitewater community.  The students to whom I am referring are:  Zach Acker, Sam Armstrong, Chris Birenbaum, Heather Delfs, Erika Goad, Shannon Moore, Brent Schambow, and Jenna Wiskes.  These are students who volunteer as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) for the Whitewater Volunteer Fire Department Rescue Squad.

Some students come to the Rescue Squad already licensed as EMTs because they provide the same service in their hometown community.  Other students pursue licenses by themselves or work with the Rescue squad to obtain one.

A lot of time and effort goes into getting and maintaining an EMT license.  Even more time goes into responding to 911 calls that can come at any time of the day or night.  These students are willing to take the time to get a license and provide this service in addition to their obligations as students.  Evidence of the time and effort these students commit is demonstrated by the fact that this year’s “EMT of the Year” for the Rescue Squad is Erika Goad and two years ago that same honor was shared by a former UW-W student named Dave Duchrow and another Rescue Squad member who is also a current UW-Whitewater employee.

Teamwork, adaptability, and collaboration are essential when responding to 911 emergencies.  These characteristics are typical of the students who volunteer for the Rescue Squad. 

I would also like to draw your attention to the UW-Whitewater staff members who provide this same invaluable service to the Whitewater community.  These staff members include:  Steve Chene, Theresa Grair, Carl Peterson, and Kim Simes.  These people exhibit the same qualities and commitment.  For example, Carl shared the recognition for “EMT of the Year” with Dave Duchrow and last year he was named “Firefighter of the Year”.  Carl is also an officer of the Rescue Squad.  His team-oriented and collaborative leadership style has been instrumental in the successful functioning of the Rescue Squad.  Steve Chene is also a good example of someone who is committed to providing this type of public service.  Prior to moving to Whitewater, Steve volunteered at a different Fire Department and provided similar public service.

It is a pleasure to volunteer with these fine people and UW-Whitewater should be proud that they are providing this significant contribution to the community.

Sincerely

Art Graham

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