Paramedic Marcia Anderson recognized as ‘Star of Life’

Marcia Anderson has spent over three decades as a paramedic with our system and was recently recognized as a 2023 Star of Life by the Minnesota Ambulance Association for her 30+ years of service.

The Star of Life Award recognizes emergency medicine personnel who have gone above and beyond, including those who have “resuscitated a patient, improved public health, had a positive impact in the community, or shown exceptional care and compassion.” In addition to working in the field, Anderson has dedicated her career to educating the next generation of paramedics and raising awareness of the mental and physical challenges frontline workers face.

Anderson started her career in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in 1986 as an emergency medical technician in her hometown of Kerkhoven, Minnesota. She became a paramedic in 1991 and has since taken on roles such as field training officer, educator, mentor, and wellness advocate.

In these roles, Anderson has focused on educating herself and others to further the development of emergency medicine professionals. She trains first responders and community members in Dakota County and is an educator with the Century College Paramedic Program.

Anderson has also participated in the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride for several years, having peddled over 1,000 miles to celebrate the lives of EMS professionals and bring awareness to the mental and physical challenges they face.

The Star of Life Award recognizes the years of contribution and positive impact that Anderson has had on thousands of her fellow emergency medicine workers.

“I am humbled and honored to have received the Star of Life Award,” said Anderson. “I have had and still have the privilege of working with very fine paramedics and EMTs. I am grateful for a calling that I have been fortunate enough to do all these years and, God willing, a few more.”