Senator Pam Helming has announced that Karen Dewar, a seasoned nurse and first responder, has been named the 2025 Woman of Distinction for the 54th Senate District. This recognition is part of the New York State Senate Women of Distinction program. Dewar was honored at a ceremony in Albany.
Karen Dewar resides in Geneseo and serves as the Director of Emergency Medical Services for Livingston County, a role she has held since 2011. In this capacity, she oversees an EMS provider program consisting of Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics, coordinates emergency medical education programs, and fosters a collaborative approach to pre-hospital emergency medicine.
Among her notable achievements is the creation of the Community Paramedicine Program. This initiative aids older residents in rural areas by connecting them with health resources and providing tools to help them live independently at home.
Dewar began her career as a New York State Emergency Medical Technician and has volunteered with the Geneseo Fire Department and Ambulance for over 48 years. She has served as Ambulance Captain, overseeing all aspects of EMS operations. In 1988, she became a Registered Professional Nurse with experience in intensive care and emergency nursing.
Recently, Dewar participated in the New York State Rural Ambulance Services Task Force to address challenges faced by EMS in rural communities.
Her dedication to EMS has earned her several accolades including the Monroe-Livingston Regional EMS Council Harriet C. Weber EMS Leadership Award and Registered Professional Nurse of Excellence Awards from both the Monroe-Livingston Regional EMS Council and the New York Department of Health Bureau of EMS.
Dewar’s family shares her commitment to public service; her husband David and their two children are involved in EMS, firefighting, and healthcare.
Senator Helming praised Dewar’s contributions: “Karen’s experience, passion and commitment are absolutely extraordinary. Her leadership in healthcare and emergency medical services is not only exemplary, it is inspirational…I am honored to celebrate her…as the 2025 Woman of Distinction for the 54th Senate District.”
David LeFeber, Chairman of the Livingston County Board of Supervisors stated: “Thanks to Karen’s passion and dedication…Livingston County has evolved into a model for rural emergency medical systems.”
Expressing gratitude for this honor, Karen Dewar said: “I am extremely humbled…My career in healthcare has been inspired by strong…women…I hope my legacy is an inspiration for young women to enter these amazing healthcare fields.”
