Sheboygan Student Wins $1,000 EMS Scholarship

Madeline Brashaw's dream of helping people in their most vulnerable moments just got a major boost.

The Sheboygan resident and Lakeshore College EMT student has been awarded the 2026 George Sippel Memorial EMS Scholarship by Orange Cross Ambulance. The $1,000 award will help fund her emergency medical training as she prepares to graduate this spring.

Brashaw's motivation runs deeper than just earning a certification. "The main reason that I want to become an EMT, and eventually a physician, is that I value helping people during moments when they most need someone," she explained.

She sees her EMT training as essential groundwork for her ultimate goal of becoming a physician. Working on an ambulance will teach her to communicate effectively with patients, make critical decisions under pressure, and develop the clinical skills that can't be learned from textbooks alone.

The scholarship carries special meaning beyond the financial support. It honors George Sippel, a former volunteer EMT and firefighter in Plymouth who dedicated his life to serving his community.

After his passing, his wife Cindy established the memorial scholarship to keep his legacy of service alive. Each year, it helps a new generation of emergency responders follow in George's footsteps.

Why This Inspires

Stories like Madeline's remind us that compassion is being passed forward every single day. She's choosing a career path that requires running toward emergencies while others run away, driven purely by the desire to help.

George Sippel volunteered countless hours to keep his neighbors safe, never seeking recognition or payment. Now his memory is creating opportunities for young people who share his heart for service.

Orange Cross Ambulance serves Sheboygan County with both paid and volunteer emergency medical personnel. By investing in students like Madeline, they're ensuring the next generation of first responders will be ready when the call comes.

One scholarship can change a life, which in turn will change countless other lives when Madeline arrives on scene.