Renee Johnson Memorial Scholarship
Doreen Renee Johnson, daughter of Lois and Toby Johnson, was born on May 23, 1978, in Billings, Montana. She grew up in Forsyth, Montana, and attended school in Forsyth and later Colstrip, Montana, where she graduated in 1997. Renee completed her AAS degree in paramedics at the MSU Billings College of Technology (now City College at MSU Billings) in 2000. She served as a paramedic for both AirEvac Ambulance Service and Southwest Ambulance Service in Arizona. Sadly, on December 14, 2004, she lost her life in a medical helicopter accident while on a paramedic call to help a critically injured patient. In memory of Renee and inspired by her passion for caring for others, her family and friends established the Renee Johnson Memorial Scholarship to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in the paramedic program at the City College at MSU Billings. The first scholarship was awarded in 2006-2007.
Impact
“It is an absolute honor to be recognized as the recipient of the Renee Johnson Memorial Scholarship. When my paramedic instructor spoke with me about the attributes I displayed that helped them make their decision, I was brought to tears. After being told that my compassion while remaining composed in critical situations greatly reflected that of Renee’s, I knew that I had found my passion in life. The money from this scholarship will allow me to focus on my schooling while continuing to allow me to serve on the volunteer ambulance crew in Laurel. My time in the field has been so incredibly rewarding, and I greatly look forward to my future in this career. With many thanks and gratitude.” — Katie G., Paramedic major