Brighton, MA – In celebration of National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) week, Steward Health Care hosted the third annual “EMS Stewards of the Community” award ceremony on May 20 at the Tirrell Room in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Dallas-based Steward, which operates nine hospitals across Massachusetts, recognized 19 EMS providers. Among these individuals was Michaila Kaufman, president of Boston College EMS (BCEMS). She was recognized by St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center for “going above and beyond” in her interactions with patients.

Kaufman, who recently became the president of the college’s emergency medical services, is also a Boston College undergraduate nursing student. Since becoming president, she has impressively balanced her commitment to BCEMS and her rigorous course work while excelling in her academics. Her extremely compassionate and exceptional patient care, empathetic and kind nature, and being a calm and professional partner contributed to her nomination by her peers.

“Michaila is an excellent choice to receive this award as she is a valuable young leader and advocate for the EMS community,” said Harrison Bane, president of St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center. “She is continually striving to provide the highest quality patient care possible and we congratulate her on all her hard work in the field and in the classroom.”

The “EMS Stewards of the Community” awards show appreciation for emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians and advanced emergency medical technicians, and paramedics who not only carry out the noble work of caring for others, but do so with a high degree of expertise, professionalism, and compassion. An internal committee of physicians and EMS directors selected nominated recipients among current providers in communities served by Steward.

Massachusetts State Police Trooper Christopher J. Dumont, EMT-P, delivered the “Stewards of the Community” keynote address. Trooper Dumont helped save the life of Transit Officer Richard Donohue, who was shot by one of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing suspects. Because of his heroic actions, Dumont received the Medal of Honor, the highest award given by the Massachusetts State Police.

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Photo Caption (L to R): Jeff Scafidi, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center EMS Manager; Michaila Kaufman, Award Recipient from Boston College EMS; Harrison Bane, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center President; and Brenden Hayden, Steward Health Care System Vice President, EMS