Huron Valley Ambulance Celebrates 2025 Stars of Life Honorees

Huron Valley Ambulance (HVA), a nonprofit and community-owned EMS provider serving Washtenaw County, Western Wayne County, and Southeastern Oakland County, has proudly announced its 2025 Star of Life Award recipients.

The Star of Life awards, overseen by the American Ambulance Association, honor Emergency Medical Technicians, Paramedics, 911 call-takers, dispatchers, and EMS support personnel who exhibit exceptional professionalism, unwavering commitment to patient care, and contributions that surpass the call of duty. This includes heroic rescues, significant community involvement, or outstanding leadership.

HVA’s 2025 honorees are:

EMT Nathan Cagna

9-1-1 Calltaker Sophia Dangerfield

Paramedic James Desentz

Paramedic Tim Driver

Emergency Dispatcher Sam Sukel

These individuals are recognized not only for their service within HVA but also for their positive impact on the broader EMS community.

The recipients joined Star of Life awardees from across Michigan at the State Capitol on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Their awards were presented by Angela Madden, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services.

Paramedic James Desentz has been with HVA for nine years and is known for his clinical excellence and dedication to complex patient care. His expertise in high-stakes inter-facility transfers and his steady mentorship of new EMTs and paramedics have made him a cornerstone of his team. Respected for his composure, compassion, and commitment to saving lives, James exemplifies the very best of EMS.

Paramedic Tim Driver has served HVA for 14 years, advancing from paramedic to Senior Paramedic, Field Training Officer, and most recently, Community Paramedic. Known for his clinical skill, thorough patient care, and deep knowledge of protocols, he is also a respected mentor who shapes the next generation of EMTs and paramedics. Tim’s dedication and leadership make him a trusted and invaluable member of HVA.

EMT Nathan Cagna, 9-1-1 Calltaker Sophia Dangerfield, and Emergency Dispatcher Sam Sukel have each demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in their respective roles, contributing significantly to the success and reputation of HVA.

The Michigan Association of Ambulance Services is a statewide trade association representing and advocating for ambulance services. MAAS members serve nearly 80 percent of Michigan counties and were responsible for more than 1,000,000 ambulance transports in 2022. MAAS members also provide community paramedicine, ER diversion, and 9-1-1 services in several areas of Michigan.

These awards highlight the critical role EMS professionals play in our healthcare infrastructure and the importance of recognizing their contributions to our communities.