The Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association (SVAA) recently held its Annual Awards Ceremony, bringing together providers, leadership, families, and community supporters to recognize a year defined by service, dedication, and impact.
“Tonight is about recognition—but more importantly, it is about reflection,” Chief John Spencer said in his opening remarks. “It is about taking a moment to step back, and truly acknowledge the impact of that work.”
50 Years of Service and Progress
This year’s ceremony carried added significance as SVAA marks its 50th anniversary—five decades of service to the community.
The evening reflected not only on those who built the organization, but also on those continuing to move it forward.
“We are standing at the intersection of legacy and progress,” Spencer noted—honoring the past while setting the tone for the future.
Recognizing Commitment and Milestones
The ceremony opened by honoring providers reaching significant Years of Service milestones, ranging from 5 to 40 years. These recognitions highlight the consistency and dedication that form the foundation of the organization.
Total Call Awards also recognized providers who have reached major milestones in total responses—representing thousands of patient interactions and moments of service.
Distinguished Awards
The evening’s highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, was presented to Stephen Pedneault for 25 years of service and lasting contributions to both the organization and EMS across Connecticut.
The Chris Schmeck Award was awarded to Mark Jordan, recognized for his mentorship and leadership.
The Perreault Award was presented to:
• Tracy Whelen, for her reliability and operational excellence
• Jen Michalman, for longstanding leadership in community engagement
Service and Organizational Impact
Awards recognizing service beyond the ordinary included:
• Zak Award: Alice Arden, for dedication to community service
• Directors’ Award: Karl Ciccito, for leadership in fundraising efforts
• Officers’ Award: Donald Delage, for clinical growth and operational support
The Greatest Number of Volunteer Hours awards were presented to Don Miner and Jackie Ellis, who together contributed a combined 1,817 hours of service in 2025.
Growth, Compassion, and Clinical Excellence
The Rising Star Award was presented to Kristen Kertanis, recognized for her growth and emerging leadership.
The Professionalism & Compassion Award was awarded to Jackie Guzie, whose patient-centered care left a lasting impact.
The Clinical Excellence Award recognized:
• Douglas McIntosh and Christopher Swor, for resuscitation efforts resulting in a full recovery
• Andrew Romaniuk and Luke Truicko, for advanced clinical performance and engagement
Leadership Recognition
The Chief’s Citation was presented to Paramedic Christopher Johnston for his leadership, innovation, and contributions to the organization.
A Culture Built on Service
As the ceremony concluded, the focus returned to the people behind the work.
“What we have built here is not just about calls, or metrics, or awards,” Spencer said. “It’s about people, showing up for our patients, for each other, and for this community.”
The evening also recognized the families and support systems who make this work possible.
As SVAA looks ahead to its next chapter, the message was clear: the organization’s strength lies in honoring its legacy while continuing to build a culture defined by service, excellence, and commitment.