MOUNT VERNON — Kayla Carr, Lt. Nate Hines, and Jordan Crabtree took top honors at the Mount Vernon Fire Department’s annual awards banquet on Monday.
Fire Chief Chad Christopher presented the awards.
Carr received the 2025 Dr. Schermer EMS Provider of the Year. Crabtree was recognized as the 2025 Firefighter of the Year, and Hines was honored as the 2025 Officer of the Year.
Michael George, Luke Rager, Carr, David Miller, and part-time employees Austin Brown and Samuel Jankey received EMS commendations.
Capt. Ben Harrod, Chatfield Redick, Kevin Lisbon, Macie Bates, Thomas Cooper, Brandon May, Walker Davis, and Andrew Sims received fire commendations.
Following are excerpts from Christopher’s comments as he presented the top awards.
Officer of the Year: Lt. Nate Hines
The Officer of the Year award is presented in recognition of outstanding leadership, dedication, and service to the department, its members, and the community.
Christopher said Hines “exemplifies strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to education and professional development. The amount of education accumulated in such a short period of time is truly impressive and reflects a desire not only to improve personally, but to elevate the department as a whole.”
Hines’ dedication extends to mentoring and teaching the next generation. He served on the Truck Committee, helped implement new departmental software, and took on new responsibilities related to protocols, medications, and equipment.
He also provided invaluable administrative support.
“His commitment to service is evident through continuous involvement in community outreach and public education efforts,” Christopher said.
“Whether interacting with residents, participating in outreach events, or providing open and honest public education, this officer is well received and represents the department with professionalism and integrity. This same professionalism is reflected in his appearance, demeanor, and conduct at all times.”
The chief said Hines “consistently delivers a high level of patient care and is an officer who places the department and its members first.”
“Always available to take a call or listen, he serves as a trusted sounding board for employees at all levels. This willingness to support others, take on new tasks, and complete any education asked of them speaks volumes about his character and dedication,” Christopher said.
In addition to operational excellence, Hines proudly serves as the Honor Guard Commander, upholding tradition, respect, and professionalism.
“As a role model for younger members, he sets a standard of excellence that positively influences the entire organization,” Christopher said.
Dr. Schermer EMS Provider of the Year: Kayla Carr
The Dr. Schermer EMS Provider of the Year award honors the department’s former medical director, Dr. Tracy Schermer.
Christopher said that since beginning her service, Carr has consistently demonstrated exceptional patient care, compassion, and professionalism.
“[She] holds our EMS standards to the highest level and continuously strives to provide the best possible care to every patient, every time,” he said.
“[Her] commitment to learning directly translates into better outcomes for patients and stronger performance within our organization,” he said.
In addition to Carr’s clinical excellence, she serves as a mentor and trainer, willingly sharing knowledge and helping elevate the skills and confidence of those around her.
She is a strong advocate for patients and coworkers, never hesitating to stand up for the underdog or speak up when it matters most.
“[Carr] regularly challenges existing technology, equipment, and processes in thoughtful ways, helping to improve our service and ensure we remain progressive and patient-focused,” the chief said.
Carr’s captain said Carr “has been expected to perform as a senior paramedic for the crew, even with less than five years of service. This person always applies the appropriate protocols and treatments, and takes on the role of teaching new employees and paramedics each and every shift. This member has done and continues to do an exceptional job and has far exceeded my expectations.”
“Through dedication, compassion, advocacy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, this person exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding EMS provider,” Christopher said.
“This award is a well-deserved recognition of [Carr’s] contributions to our patients, our team, and our community.”
Firefighter of the Year: Jordan Crabtree
The Firefighter of the Year award recognizes exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the mission of the Mount Vernon Fire Department.
Christopher said that throughout the past year, Crabtree demonstrated performance and leadership that far exceeded expectations for his rank and tenure.
Crabtree showed a strong commitment to personal and professional growth, is a Fire/EMS and CPR instructor, and continually seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge base.
“His involvement in trainings has helped bring new and innovative training techniques back to the department, strengthening operational readiness across the organization,” Christopher said.
Christopher said that, as a mentor and coach, Crabtree has taken his leadership to the next level, particularly with younger members, part-time employees, and student riders.
“He leads by example, maintains a squared-away and solid presence, and is consistently positive and approachable,” Christopher said.
Christopher said Crabtree exemplifies outstanding patient care and customer service, consistently delivering high-quality, compassionate care to citizens.
The chief said that, beyond operational duties, Crabtree has demonstrated dedication to the department’s growth and success through organizational involvement, including serving as one of the organizers of the association’s golf scramble fundraiser.
“This effort highlights his passion for the department and his willingness to contribute beyond the fireground,” Christopher said.
“Jordan, you should be proud of your accomplishments and should wear this ribbon on your uniform as a constant reminder of your actions and of the responsibility that you possess.”