WOODRUFF, Wis. – Howard Young Medical Center has selected Olivia Menzia, AEMT, of Boulder Junction as the Aspirus MedEvac Recipient of the Walter Olson Medical Staff Education Fund Scholarship, providing her the opportunity to attend the EMS World Expo, September 30–October 2, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.
Supported through the Walter Olson Medical Staff Education Fund, the scholarship covers conference registration, airfare, and lodging, allowing emergency medical services professionals serving the Howard Young Medical Center region to advance their education and bring valuable knowledge and training back to northern Wisconsin communities.
Menzia serves as a full-time Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) with Aspirus MedEvac and is also involved with the Boulder Junction Volunteer Fire Department Rehab Team. A lifelong resident of the Lakeland area, she developed her passion for emergency medical services through her local volunteer fire department, where she first learned basic patient assessment and firefighter rehabilitation skills before earning her EMT and AEMT certifications.
“Olivia has a genuine passion for helping others and a strong commitment to advancing her skills as an EMS provider,” said Terra Schmoeger, Director of Nursing at Howard Young Medical Center. “She embodies the dedication, compassion, and professionalism that are essential in emergency medical services. We are proud to support her educational journey and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to have on our communities.”
Since joining Aspirus MedEvac as a full-time 911 provider, Menzia has continued to advance her education and clinical expertise. In 2024, she began pursuing her paramedic degree through Northcentral Technical College while balancing the demands of her career.
In her scholarship application, Menzia shared how a deeply personal experience strengthened her commitment to EMS. After her father was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, she put her paramedic education on hold to care for him. When he suffered a medical emergency while she was driving him to his first chemotherapy appointment, Menzia relied on her EMS training to respond and provide care. The experience gave her a unique perspective on the challenges patients and families face during medical emergencies and further reinforced her dedication to compassionate care.
“I am incredibly thankful to Howard Young Medical Center and the Walter Olson Medical Staff Education Fund for this opportunity,” said Menzia. “EMS has been a meaningful part of my life for many years, and this scholarship will allow me to continue learning and growing as a provider. I’m excited to bring new ideas and knowledge back to Aspirus MedEvac and the communities we serve throughout northern Wisconsin.”
Menzia's long-term goal is to continue expanding her clinical knowledge while ultimately helping EMS personnel and families impacted by medical emergencies, navigate grief and trauma. She hopes to bring additional resources and support to the Lakeland area, where specialized EMS and trauma counseling services are limited.
The scholarship is funded through the Walter Olson Medical Staff Education Fund, established in 1972 through a generous gift from Howard Young Medical Center patient Walter Olson. The Walter Olson Committee oversees the fund and supports educational opportunities that help healthcare professionals remain at the forefront of medical knowledge and technical expertise.
By investing in EMS education and professional development, Howard Young Medical Center continues its commitment to strengthening emergency medical services and enhancing patient care throughout northern Wisconsin.