KEMSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS BALLOT 2026 - Nominees

See voting instructions on the bottom of this page.

Candidates (in alphabetical order by last name)

Candy Aschenbrenner, Logan County EMS 

I am seeking a position on the KEMSA Board because I believe strongly in the association's mission to serve as a unified voice for EMS professionals and to advance emergency medical services throughout Kansas. As a rural EMS leader, paramedic, registered nurse, educator, and administrator, I have dedicated my career to improving patient care, supporting providers, and strengthening EMS systems within the communities we serve. 

Working in frontier Northwestern Kansas has given me firsthand insight into the unique challenges facing rural EMS agencies, including workforce recruitment and retention, educational access, financial sustainability, long transport times, limited healthcare resources, and the increasing demands placed upon emergency responders. While these challenges may differ from those faced in more populated areas, they are no less important. I believe Northwestern Kansas deserves strong representation at the state level, ensuring that the voices of frontier providers, agencies, and communities are heard when decisions affecting EMS are being made.

Throughout my career, I have been passionate about EMS education and professional development. I have worked to develop future EMS providers, mentor new clinicians, and promote evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes. I believe KEMSA plays a critical role in fostering collaboration among educators, administrators, field providers, medical directors, and community partners, and I would be honored to contribute to that mission. 

Serving on the KEMSA Board would provide an opportunity to represent the interests of Northwestern Kansas while helping advance initiatives that strengthen EMS education, advocacy, leadership development, provider wellness, and patient care across the entire state. I am committed to listening to the membership, building relationships among diverse stakeholders, and ensuring that both rural and urban perspectives are considered as we work together to address the future of EMS in Kansas.

I view board service not as a personal achievement, but as an opportunity to give back to the profession that has shaped my career and to advocate for the providers and communities of

Northwestern Kansas while helping strengthen emergency medical services statewide.

Jason Hudson, Franklin County EMS 

I am writing to express my interest in serving as a member of the Board of Directors for the Kansas EMS Association. I am deeply committed to strengthening emergency medical services across our state by ensuring that providers feel heard, supported, and empowered to help shape the future of EMS in Kansas.

A central focus of my interest in board service is improving communication between the Association and its members. I believe that creating clear, accessible, and responsive channels for feedback is essential so that EMS professionals across Kansas feel their perspectives, concerns, and ideas are not only welcomed, but actively considered. When providers know their voices matter, engagement increases and the organization becomes stronger and more representative.

I am also passionate about advocating for EMS professionals. Those working on the front lines bring invaluable insight into the challenges and opportunities within our system. By elevating their voices and experiences, the Association can more effectively represent their interests and work toward meaningful improvements that benefit both providers and the communities they serve.

Additionally, I am committed to enhancing the effectiveness of EMS in Kansas through greater awareness and understanding of the statutory and regulatory environment that shapes our work. Promoting education around existing laws, while also identifying opportunities for thoughtful regulatory and legislative change, will help ensure that EMS systems remain responsive, efficient, and positioned for future growth.

Serving on the Board would be an honor, and I would welcome the opportunity to contribute my experience, perspective, and dedication to a more connected, informed, and forward-thinking EMS community in Kansas. Thank you for your time and consideration.

anderson Lowe, Halstead Fire/EMS  

I have been the EMS director for the City of Halstead since July 2007 and was promoted to department Chief in 2022. I have been certified in Kansas as an EMS provider since November 1992.  I am also a board member of the Region III EMS Council.  I’m avid supporter of both the rural and urban departments.  I am passionate about assisting rural agencies in being successful and supporting rural EMS.  It is important to me that all agencies are represented and have a voice in Kansas.

I was on the KEMSA Board of Directors between 2016 and 2025. During my time on the Board, I have participated with the board as group to work to better Kansas EMS several areas of Legislation, Management, and Education just to name a few.  I’ve been actively involved in KEMSA events, advocacy, and continuing to improve our profession.

 I seek support to return to the KEMSA Board, so I have the opportunity to be able to help continue the growth of KEMSA and the growth of Kansas EMS.  It is more important now than ever to provide the support that Kansas EMS providers need.  My board position will allow me to continue to work towards that goal.

Sydney Marsden, amr

Sydney Marsden is a Firefighter/Paramedic with nine years of experience in emergency medical services and a demonstrated commitment to servant leadership. Through her roles as a paraprofessional, EMS educator, and active participant in local city government, she has developed strong skills in mentorship, collaboration, active listening, and problem-solving, while gaining valuable insight into the needs of the communities she serves. Dedicated to supporting the advancement and well-being of first responders across the Midwest, Sydney has also contributed more than 100,000 volunteer hours, helped raise over $30,000 for charitable causes, and positively impacted thousands of lives. Her diverse experiences in public safety, education, civic engagement, and community service position her to be a thoughtful, effective, and compassionate board member.

Alex Protzman, Riley County EMS

I believe KEMSA plays a vital role in the continued advancement and success of EMS across Kansas. By bringing together the voices, experiences, and perspectives of EMS professionals from throughout the state, KEMSA provides a powerful platform for collaboration, advocacy, education, and professional growth.

Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting efforts that advance the EMS profession and improve outcomes for the patients and communities we serve. The opportunity to participate in that ongoing growth has been both personally and professionally rewarding. Serving on the KEMSA Board of Directors would allow me to further that commitment by helping guide the organization's mission, support its members, and advocate for the continued advancement of Kansas EMS.

I am passionate about the future of our profession and believe my experience and dedication to service would allow me to make meaningful contributions to the Board and the EMS community it represents.

Keith Wangerin, Smith County EMS

My name is Keith Wangerin, I began my EMS career in 2014 as an EMT, earning my AEMT certification in 2015 and my Paramedic certification in 2017. In 2020, I further expanded my capabilities by obtaining my Flight Paramedic Certification. Throughout this journey, I have had the privilege of learning alongside exceptional technicians and administrators who have shaped me into the provider and leader I am today.

In 2023, I was appointed Director of Smith County EMS a role I approach with the same commitment to growth and excellence that has guided my career from the beginning. I believe that being knowledgeable in EMS is never a destination, but an ongoing pursuit, and I remain proactive in seeking opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.

I am communicative, detail-oriented, and a firm believer in the power of teamwork. I lead with transparency and fairness, and I am not afraid to face difficult challenges head-on. My passion for this work drives everything I do, and I take great pride in getting the job done for my team, my community, and my patients.

If elected to the Kansas Emergency Medical Services Association Board of Directors, I would be honored to serve the Kansas EMS community by championing expanded education opportunities, advocating on behalf of EMS technicians and services across the state, and providing steadfast support to the people who make this profession what it is. It would be a tremendous honor to contribute at this level, and I am fully committed to giving this role everything I have.

Thank you sincerely for your time and consideration.

Jerrad Webb, Kearny County EMS

 I was recently appointed to fill a vacancy and have only had the opportunity to serve in this capacity for a few months but have, thus far, greatly enjoyed learning how the board operates and would welcome the opportunity to continue in a similar capacity. 

KEMSA has the opportunity to be a catalyst for the continued betterment of EMS throughout the State of Kansas and it is vital that there are people who bring a wide variety of experiences and opinions to the table for that to happen. I’ve had extensive experience as a board member in various capacities, currently serving on our local school board of which I am in my in my 15th year. I also served in the past as our local mayor and a county commissioner as well as numerous local church boards, the rec board and others. 

The responsibility that board members hold is not to be taken lightly and I can assure you I will do everything in my power to be an active member of chosen to do so. 

How to vote for the 2026 Board of Directors:

1) Read the biographical information about the candidates and why they want to be on the KEMSA board. You will only get to vote for three (3) candidates.

2) Take a few seconds to vote using our electronic ballot that can be found in your email inbox. (available July 27-August 14 at noon)
Note: Members must login to vote since you must be a verified KEMSA Member for your vote to be counted! If you have never logged in, you can activate your account by clicking on the login button at the very top right corner of this website. On the login screen, click the "forgot password" link. To be eligible to vote, you must be either an individual member or part of a squad membership level. 

Enter the e-mail address we have on file, and it will provide you with directions via e-mail about setting your password. Then come back and login to gain access to your profile information, events, and your membership information. If you have trouble, contact kari@kemsa.org.

Paper ballots are available by contacting kari@kemsa.org.  You can mail a ballot to be received by Aug. 10 or e-mail in a ballot before the deadline.

Voting closes Friday, August 14 at noon.