It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved team member, Amanda Tennyson, Harm Reduction Program Coordinator. Amanda’s loss is deeply felt by her colleagues at Winnebago County Public Health and by the countless individuals and families throughout our community whose lives she touched with her compassion, advocacy, and unrelenting commitment to equity and care.
Amanda was a fierce, dedicated, and passionate advocate for harm reduction. She believed in meeting people where they are, recognizing their humanity first and foremost—never defining anyone by their addiction or life struggles. Through her work with individuals impacted by substance use disorder, Amanda brought dignity, empathy, and real change to those often overlooked or misunderstood.
Over the years, Amanda shared her deep knowledge and personal experience with her peers and the broader community. She was instrumental in educating others on harm reduction strategies and challenging the stigma surrounding substance use. Her voice was powerful, unflinching, and always grounded in compassion. Her leadership and impact earned her numerous accolades, including the Spirit of Public Health Award from the Wisconsin Public Health Association and recognition from state and national coalitions. She also proudly earned her SAC-IT (Substance Abuse Counselor-In Training) certification from FVTC, another testament to her dedication to making a difference.
Amanda was more than her accomplishments—she was a source of kindness, wit, strength, and support. She brought light to every space she entered, encouraging her coworkers with thoughtful affirmations and her signature sassy humor. She had a unique ability to see people as whole—whether they were feeling broken or complete—and she met each person with the respect and care they deserved.
Her passing is an immeasurable loss not only to her family and loved ones, but to all of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with her. Amanda’s legacy will continue through the work she championed, the lives she changed, and the spirit of community she helped nurture.
As we navigate this heartbreaking loss, let us honor Amanda by embodying the values she lived: compassion, advocacy, and the unwavering belief that no one is alone.
For those struggling with grief or emotional distress, support is available. Please reach out to:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988
- Winnebago County Crisis Line – (920) 233-7707
Amanda would want each of us to remember: You matter. You are not alone.
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