2026 KEMSA Award Winner
On August 15th, KEMSA (Kansas Emergency Medical Services Association) hosted an award ceremony to honor the remarkable contributions of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals. The Celine Larson Peer Support Award was created to recognize individuals or teams whose service exceeds what is normally expected, providing the utmost peer support, exemplifying Strength and Honor.
Jared Rokey received the Celine Larson Peer Support Award this year. Rokey is a dedicated EMS professional, advocate for peer support, and someone whose life and work reflect resilience, compassion, and service to others. Born with Cystic Fibrosis, Jared has lived with a deep awareness of the value of every breath and the importance of using each day with purpose. That perspective has shaped both his faith and his calling to serve those around him.
He is also looking forward to a new chapter in his personal life, as he is engaged to be married to Abigail Messner this October.
Jared earned his EMT certification at age 19, initially to gain first-aid knowledge for the farm, but quickly discovered a passion for emergency medical services. As his career progressed, he experienced firsthand the emotional weight, anxiety, and trauma that often come with being a first responder. Rather than walking away, Jared chose to seek support, learn, and heal—an experience that became the foundation for his commitment to peer support.
Through mentorship, education, and his own experiences, Jared became a trusted source of support for coworkers and fellow responders. He completed the FRST (First Responder Support Team) program and helped establish a structured peer support system within TECHS EMS. His efforts have also reached surrounding communities, fellow volunteers, and local fire and law enforcement partners.
Jared continues to advocate for burnout awareness, healthy boundaries, stress management, and long-term wellness, while helping new EMS employees understand the importance of caring for their mental health. Through his humility, honesty, faith, and willingness to simply show up for others, Jared embodies the true spirit of Peer Support and has made a lasting impact on his fellow responders and community.
The KEMSA conference is available for EMS providers of all levels, educators, managers/supervisors, service directors, medical directors, nurses, and others involved in the EMS profession.
