Harris EMS Recognized for Outstanding Service and Education Contributions

Harris Emergency Medical Services (EMS), a department of Harris Regional Hospital, recently received multiple accolades in recognition of its exceptional contributions to the EMS field and its commitment to education.

As part of Southwestern Community College’s (SCC) emergency medical services training courses, Harris EMS was awarded the 2025 Paramedic Class "Service of the Year" distinction. This honor is bestowed upon one of the EMS services with whom SCC's paramedic students complete their clinical ride-along experiences, and it reflects the outstanding professionalism and quality of training provided by Harris EMS staff.

Paramedic Christian Ropp, NCP, a preceptor at Harris EMS, was also recognized for his exceptional role in mentoring future EMS professionals. Ropp was named Preceptor of the Year for the SCC Public Safety Training Center's EMT class in Franklin. The award honors Ropp's dedication to education, mentorship, and fostering the growth of emerging paramedics, demonstrating his significant impact on the development of the next generation of emergency medical professionals.

In a further testament to Harris EMS’s commitment to education and workforce development, three Harris EMTs—Chelsea Chandler, Eva Miller, and Hailee Moss—have graduated from Southwestern Community College's paramedic program. Additionally, George Whisnant graduated from the Cherokee Tribal EMS program, earning paramedic certification and now working full time with Harris EMS as a paramedic. These dedicated individuals have successfully completed the rigorous training and have been newly certified as North Carolina Paramedics. Their achievement represents both personal milestones and an ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, professional emergency care to the communities served by Harris EMS.

“We are incredibly proud of the recognition our team has received and achieved for these outstanding accolades,” said Ashley Hindman, chief executive officer for Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals. “These awards are a reflection of the dedication, skill, and compassion that our EMS team demonstrates each day. The commitment to excellence that our staff brings to their clinical work, education, and mentorship is truly commendable.”

Harris EMS remains dedicated to building strong partnerships with local educational institutions, ensuring that its staff members receive continuous training and development to stay at the forefront of EMS best practices. This commitment to education not only strengthens the team but also enhances the level of care provided to patients across the region.

For more information about Harris EMS and its services, visit MyHarrisRegional.com.