Featured: The Vital Link leadership team pictured at the organization’s 40th-anniversary celebration Friday, May 19, at Lyon College Edwards Common. Pictured from left to right are: Sherwin Meharg, ERA director; Kathy Lanier, chief executive officer; Rachael Sowers, chief financial officer; and Kenny Tosh, chief operations officer.
Vital Link EMS, headquartered in Batesville, kicked off National EMS Week (held May 21- May 27) with a gala celebrating 40 years of service at the Lyon College Edwards Commons on Friday, May 19.
Originally named Independence County Emergency Medical Service, operations began in August 1983. Since then, the company — now the exclusive provider for Independence, Izard, and Stone counties — rebranded to Vital Link with the opportunity to become a regional provider.
“With over 200 in attendance, it was an extraordinary celebration of four decades of dedicated service,” said Vital Link CEO Kathy Lanier in a release. “Esteemed guests, partners, employees, and community members gathered to honor our remarkable journey.”
In honor of the 40th anniversary, Vital Link announced the establishment of the Vital Link Scholarship for EMT and Paramedic students enrolled at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville.
Vital Link noted in the release that the scholarship comes as “…the leadership team and Board of Directors have committed to helping address the staffing challenges faced in the ambulance industry.”
The anchor for the gift was $40,000 from Vital Link. Additionally, a portion of ticket sales and donations from the gala event added $5,800, bringing the total gift to the UACCB ( University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville) Foundation to $45,800.
UACCB Chancellor Dr. Brian Shonk, UACCB Dean of Health Professions Becky Warren, and UACCB Director of EMS Programs Jennifer Davidek were present to accept the gift.
“Vital Link EMS is a valued part of our community and an integral component of our regional healthcare system. Vital Link employees are the heroes there for us in our greatest time of need, providing excellent emergency medical services and a calm presence during our most trying medical emergencies,” said Shonk. “This gift to the UACCB Foundation will help offset student expenses, enabling students to receive the necessary training required to become our future EMS heroes. I thank Vital Link EMS, under the direction of CEO Kathy Lanier, for their commitment to EMS education and the future of our students.”
Kathy Lanier presented awards to Stacy Wright and Myra Looney Wood. Wright is the trauma registrar and security manager of White River Health. He began his career as an EMT with Vital Link, later becoming a paramedic.
“While he has moved on from EMS, his role at White River keeps him in a position to bridge the relationship between EMS and the hospital. His efforts exemplify the true spirit of collaboration, compassion, and selflessness. Stacy is a true champion and cheerleader of Vital Link, and for that, we were honored to present him with the Community Partner Award,” Vital Link noted in the release.
“Stacy is a true partner and friend to Vital Link, no matter the issue, he is always ready to help in any way he can,” said Vital Link COO Kenny Tosh.
Myra Looney Wood’s journey with Vital Link began as a board member and transitioned to the role of CEO, where she served for 22 years.
Wood exemplifies the very essence of leadership, guiding Vital Link through challenges, inspiring innovation, and fostering a culture of excellence. Her leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, collaboration, and genuine care for the well-being of every member of our organization. Myra has been a mentor, a confidant, and an inspiring force helping countless individuals reach their full potential, Vital Link said in the release.
“In recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and profound impact on our organization and the lives of all those they have touched, it was my honor to present the Leadership Award to Myra,” said Lanier.
A video tribute to 40 years was produced by Batesville native and Regional EMMY award winner Terrell Case.
“There is a lot of depth to the organization and people of Vital Link unknown to many in this community,” said CFO Rachael Sowers about the video. “We knew we had to take the opportunity of our 40th anniversary to share our story, and we knew immediately Terrell was the one to help us do it. Because of Terrell’s connection to the community, his previous documentary work, as well as his current role at Arkansas PBS, he had the right skills to make it happen.”
The evening was topped off by a toast by Sherwin Meharg, director of Emergency Repair of Arkansas, with entertainment by the Speakeasy Rock Band.
Table sponsors contributing to the scholarship fund included the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, Center Point Graphics, Citizens Bank, First Community Bank, Ray and Diane Lacroix, Max and Susan McElmurry, Merchants and Planters Bank, Schaaf Financial, UACCB, Quality Home and Flooring, Yoga7, Welch Couch and Company, White River Eye Care, White River Health, White River Now, and a host of friends and family.
“It is our honor to serve the citizens of our service area,” said Lanier. “Those in attendance got a real look into the heart and soul of our company, seeing the emotions and dedication of EMS professionals. The evening celebrated our remarkable history, the gift of scholarship, and our most important assets, our employees.”
Image provided by Vital Link EMS
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