The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recognized outstanding contributions in emergency medical services at an awards ceremony held during the annual Texas EMS Conference in Fort Worth. The event celebrated individuals, teams, and facilities for their exceptional service to communities across Texas.

"Those recognized at this year’s awards ceremony have made significant impacts on our EMS operations," stated Dr. Timothy Stevenson, DSHS Deputy Commissioner for Consumer Protection. "These award winners exemplify true professionalism and excellence, which so many of our EMS professionals demonstrate every day. Texas is fortunate they are safeguarding our state and communities within our EMS/Trauma System."

Among the honorees were Jimmy Lanning from Stratford, who received the EMS Community Recognition Award; Samantha Grimsley from Weatherford, named EMS Education Program/Educator of the Year; and Jerome Wymore from Lockhart, awarded the Dispatcher Excellence Award.

Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center in Houston was recognized with the Interfacility Collaboration Award, while Val Verde Regional Medical Center EMS in Del Rio received the Rural Healthcare Award. Designated Facilities of the Year included UT Tyler Healthcare System and Childress Regional Medical Center.

Stephen Harper from San Antonio was honored as EMS Leader of the Year, with Eduardo Rodriguez from Dallas named EMS Professional of the Year. Waller County EMS in Hempstead and Memorial Hermann Life Flight in Houston shared recognition for EMS Response of the Year.

Chief W. Nim Kidd from Austin and Eric Epley from San Antonio were acknowledged for their Journey of Excellence by GETAC*, while Donald Jenkins from San Antonio received GETAC’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Hall of Honor paid tribute to Shon Mathews from Texarkana and Zane Schaeffer from Ben Wheeler for their line-of-duty deaths.

*GETAC is the Governor’s EMS and Trauma Advisory Council.