Amanda Tennyson, Winnebago County Public Health Harm Reduction Program Coordinator, Has Passed Away

The Winnebago County community is mourning the devastating loss of Amanda Tennyson, the Harm Reduction Program Coordinator at Winnebago County Public Health. Her death was announced through a heartfelt statement posted by the department on Facebook, where she was remembered as a passionate advocate, a compassionate coworker, and a vital figure in the public health field. Amanda’s passing is being deeply felt not only by her colleagues but also by the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her dedication and advocacy.

A Champion for Compassion and Harm Reduction

Amanda Tennyson was more than a public health professional — she was a champion for harm reduction and a powerful voice for compassion, empathy, and change. She believed wholeheartedly in meeting people where they are, especially those living with substance use disorders. Her approach emphasized dignity, understanding, and a relentless fight against the stigma that often surrounds addiction.

In their official statement, Winnebago County Public Health wrote:

“Amanda was a fierce and passionate advocate for meeting people where they are at and incorporating harm reduction approaches into all aspects of her work, particularly when engaging people with substance use disorder. She treated everyone who stepped into her office as a person, not as someone defined by their addiction or struggles.”

Amanda’s impact stretched beyond her daily duties. She used her vast knowledge and lived experience to educate and inspire not only her clients but also her colleagues, helping to transform the way public health professionals understand and respond to addiction, trauma, and recovery.

Recognized for Her Outstanding Service

Amanda’s dedication to harm reduction and public health did not go unnoticed. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Spirit of Public Health Award from the Wisconsin Public Health Association. She was also recognized by state and national coalitions for her commitment to reducing stigma and improving outcomes for people affected by substance use.

Additionally, she celebrated several personal and professional milestones, including graduating from Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) with her SAC-IT (Substance Abuse Counselor – In Training) certification. These accomplishments reflected her unwavering drive to learn, grow, and be a beacon of change within her field.

A Light in the Workplace and Community

Amanda’s spirit was infectious. Her colleagues describe her as someone who could light up any room — offering a sassy comment, positive affirmations, and endless encouragement to those around her. She treated everyone — coworkers, clients, strangers — as whole human beings, no matter what challenges they were facing.

“She saw each one of us as complete humans, as broken or whole as we were in the moment,” the department shared in their tribute. “She treated everyone in her path with kindness and encouragement and always uplifted her coworkers.”

Amanda’s loss leaves a profound void in the heart of Winnebago County Public Health and in the wider community. She was not only a colleague and professional — she was a friend, a confidante, and a source of support for so many.

A Community in Grief

As the community grapples with the loss of Amanda Tennyson, Public Health officials are urging individuals to take care of themselves and seek support during this difficult time. Her death is a reminder of how precious life is and how deeply one person can impact a community.

“Amanda’s passing is an impactful event for each of us, for her family, and for our community. We lost an important part of us and our team.”

For those struggling with grief or emotional distress, mental health resources are available, including:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org
• Winnebago County Crisis Line – Call (920) 233-7707

As Amanda herself would say: “None of us are alone.”

Honoring Amanda’s Legacy

The best way to honor Amanda Tennyson is to continue her work — by fighting stigma, by advocating for harm reduction, and by treating every individual with dignity and compassion. Her life was a testament to the idea that public health is not just policy — it’s people. And Amanda made it her mission to uplift every person she encountered.

As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is clear: Amanda Tennyson changed lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire public health professionals, advocates, and community members for years to come.

May she rest in peace, and may her memory be a light that never fades.