The American Ambulance Association (AAA) has announced its third annual class of EMSNext honorees. EMSNext is a groundbreaking initiative that spotlights emerging emergency medical services (EMS) leaders and offers them leadership development, structured mentorship, and collaborative networking opportunities throughout the year. Sixteen individuals from 10 states join a growing network of 54 EMSNext program alumni poised to assume prominent leadership roles in the profession.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome the 2025 class of EMSNext,” said AAA President Jamie Pafford-Gresham. “Their passion, dedication, and leadership inspire us all and promise a brighter, more resilient future for EMS. Together, they will stand at the forefront of mobile healthcare excellence for patients across the nation—now and in the future.”
Acadian Ambulance Communications Operations Manager Nancy Chustz and Operations Coordinator Rebekah Cummings were selected for this year’s class.
Nancy has been with Acadian Ambulance since 2004. She began in ground operations and earned recognition as Acadian’s 2007 Capital Region EMT of the Year. She moved over to Dispatch in 2008, where she provided emergency pre-arrival instructions, coordinated ambulance operations, and trained new employees. She expanded into Air Med Operational Control from 2010-2014, managing air and offshore medical transport.
As the Operations Manager, Nancy leads the Lafayette Communication Center, manages unit and hour allocation across Louisiana and Mississippi, and ensures operational efficiency. She works closely with Acadian’s other Communication Centers in Texas, and she oversees large-scale emergency response operations.
Rebekah earned her paramedic certification in 2012 and began her career in Pasadena, TX. In November 2013, she relocated to Covington, LA, and joined Acadian Ambulance as a Paramedic. She has worked as a Field Training Officer, Paramedic Field Supervisor and Critical Care Transport Paramedic. As a member of Acadian’s strike team, she responded to eight hurricane deployments and provided support during operations startups in new areas.
Rebekah has served as the Operations Coordinator for Acadian’s Northshore District since September 2021. She has expanded her role by focusing on behind-the-scenes metrics and audits, helping shape more informed and effective decision-making processes.
About the American Ambulance Association
The American Ambulance Association safeguards the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. AAA advances sustainable EMS policy, empowering its members to serve their communities with high-quality on-demand healthcare. For more than 40 years, AAA has proudly represented those who care for people first.
About Acadian Ambulance
Acadian Ambulance is one of the largest ambulance services in the nation, providing transportation and medical services to areas in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. It is employee-owned and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, and its sister division, Acadian Air Med, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems.
