It’s with a deep sense of accomplishment and a touch of melancholy that I sit down to write this blog post. Many of you know me as Richard Zuschlag, co-founder and longtime CEO of Acadian Ambulance. This incredible company, dedicated to providing life-saving services across Louisiana, has been my passion for over five decades.

Today, I want to share my story – the journey that led me to co-found Acadian and the unwavering commitment to service that has guided me throughout my career.

From Engineering to Entrepreneurship

Born and raised in Greenville, Pennsylvania, my path wasn’t always set for the world of emergency medical services. I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at Capitol Technology University (now Capitol Technology University). My early career took me to the Greenville Broadcasting Company and Westinghouse Electric Space and Defense Center. These experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic, a love for problem-solving, and a fascination with technology – all qualities that would prove invaluable later.

Planting the Seeds of Acadian

In 1971, life took an unexpected turn. I found myself in Lafayette, Louisiana, a vibrant city with a growing population. It was here that I met my co-founders, Mickey Thibodaux and Don Gonsoulin. We were all driven by a desire to make a difference in our community. One evening, while discussing the challenges of emergency medical care in Lafayette, a seed was planted.

Back then, ambulance services were fragmented, with limited resources and outdated equipment. We saw an opportunity to create something better, a company that could provide high-quality, compassionate care to everyone in need. With that vision in mind, Acadian Ambulance Service was born.

Building a Legacy of Care

We started small, with just a handful of ambulances and a dedicated team. We knew that to succeed, we needed to focus on three things: cutting-edge technology, well-trained personnel, and a commitment to exceptional service. We invested heavily in the latest medical equipment, ensuring our ambulances were equipped to handle any emergency. We prioritized training, creating a team of highly skilled paramedics and EMTs. Most importantly, we instilled in our staff a core value – treating every patient with dignity and compassion.

The journey wasn’t always easy. There were challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But we persevered, driven by our unwavering commitment to our mission. Slowly but surely, Acadian Ambulance began to earn a reputation for excellence. We expanded our reach, serving more communities across Louisiana. We embraced new technologies, like advanced communication systems and in-ambulance telemetry, further enhancing our ability to deliver life-saving care.

Beyond Emergency Response

Over the years, Acadian Ambulance evolved beyond just emergency response. We recognized the need for comprehensive medical transportation services, offering non-emergency transports for patients needing medical appointments or hospital visits. We also understood the importance of community education, launching programs to educate citizens on CPR and other life-saving skills.

A Legacy of Service

Today, Acadian Ambulance stands as a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and hard work. We are the largest ambulance service in Louisiana, serving millions of people across the state. Our team of thousands of skilled professionals is committed to providing the highest quality care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

But Acadian Ambulance is more than just a company; it’s a family. We are a community of caregivers, united by a shared purpose – to serve our neighbors in their time of need. It’s this sense of purpose, this dedication to making a difference, that has been the most rewarding aspect of my journey with Acadian.

Looking Forward

While I may be stepping back from my role as CEO, I remain deeply committed to Acadian Ambulance and the vital role it plays in Louisiana’s healthcare system. The future is bright for Acadian. We have a strong leadership team and a dedicated workforce who are poised to take the company to even greater heights. I have no doubt that Acadian will continue to innovate, grow, and provide exceptional care for generations to come.

A Message of Gratitude

In conclusion, I want to express my deepest gratitude. To my co-founders, Mickey and Don, thank you for your unwavering partnership and shared vision. To the countless employees who have dedicated their careers to Acadian, thank you for your commitment, compassion, and lifesaving work. And most importantly, thank you to the people of Louisiana, for trusting Acadian Ambulance with your care.

It has been an honor to serve you.

Sincerely,

Richard Zuschlag

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