The Winnebago County public health community is grieving the sudden and devastating loss of Amanda Tennyson of Appleton, Wisconsin. Amanda passed away unexpectedly, and her death has left a profound void among her colleagues, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her extraordinary work as a harm reduction advocate.
As the dedicated Harm Reduction Program Coordinator for Winnebago County, Amanda made it her life’s mission to deliver compassionate, practical, and evidence-based support to people struggling with addiction and related health challenges. With unwavering empathy and a fierce determination to uphold dignity and human rights, she spearheaded outreach efforts, coordinated syringe exchange initiatives, and ensured access to life-saving resources such as naloxone kits, overdose prevention education, and linkage to treatment and support services.
Amanda chose a career path rooted in empathy, fueled by personal insight into the struggles of addiction. Those who knew her describe a woman of remarkable integrity, boundless compassion, and unwavering commitment—someone who never judged those in need, instead offering hope, respect, and immediate assistance with both professionalism and warmth. Her grace in the face of adversity served as a model for her team and a lifeline for vulnerable community members.
Born and raised in Appleton, Amanda was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in her values of kindness, social justice, and community service. Excelling academically, she pursued higher education in public health and human services, where she immersed herself in community health initiatives and care models grounded in equity. After graduating, Amanda returned to serve the region she loved, determined to enact meaningful change and impact at the grassroots level.
Under Amanda’s leadership, the Winnebago County Harm Reduction Program achieved significant milestones. She expanded syringe exchange sites to more accessible locations, organized mobile outreach services to reach rural or underserved areas, and strengthened partnerships with local healthcare providers and community organizations. Colleagues recall her as a natural leader whose thoughtful guidance and open-door policy fostered a collaborative, compassionate team. She championed peer-led efforts and celebrated even the smallest victories—every person who walked away with naloxone, every connection made to supportive care, and every life potentially saved.
Colleagues, friends, and program participants alike have taken to social media and local news outlets to share their appreciation and mourn her passing. A coworker wrote, “Amanda was more than a coordinator—she was a friend, ally, and fierce advocate. Her influence changed lives.” Participants in the program echoed that sentiment: many recounted moments when Amanda’s friendly presence, trust, and tireless dedication gave them hope in the darkest moments.
Amanda was also an active volunteer outside her professional role. She regularly contributed to community health fairs, led training sessions for first responders on overdose prevention, and educated schools and civic groups about drug policy, stigma, and evidence-based solutions. In every setting, she carried her signature blend of warmth, intellect, and advocacy.
Her sudden death has left behind a grieving family—surviving relatives include her parents, siblings, extended family, and a wide circle of dear friends. They have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and love from the community. “Amanda gave so much of herself to help others,” the family shared. “Our hearts are broken, but we take comfort in knowing her work saved lives and inspired so many.”
A memorial service will be held in Appleton, with details announced soon. The Tennyson family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Winnebago County Harm Reduction Program or a related nonprofit that continues Amanda’s mission of compassion, dignity, and evidence-based care.
