Wisconsin Mourns Loss of Amanda Tennyson, Harm Reduction Advocate and Public Health Leader
Oshkosh, WI – Amanda Tennyson, a tireless advocate for harm reduction and a trusted leader in public health. Tennyson, who served as the Harm Reduction Program Coordinator, passed away recently, leaving behind a powerful legacy of compassion, activism, and unwavering support for individuals battling substance use disorders.
Described by colleagues as a “fierce and passionate advocate,” Amanda was widely known for her ability to meet people where they were — emotionally, physically, and socially — without judgment. In a field where stigma often overshadows care, Amanda stood as a beacon of empathy and understanding.
A Champion for the Vulnerable
Amanda’s work focused on implementing harm reduction strategies, a public health approach aimed at minimizing the negative consequences of drug use without necessarily requiring abstinence. Her methods emphasized dignity and humanity, particularly when working with individuals struggling with substance use.
“She treated every single person like a human first,” said one colleague at Winnebago County Public Health, “not as a label, not as a statistic.”
Her efforts were not only compassionate but effective. Amanda played a key role in expanding education around harm reduction throughout the county and beyond, helping reshape how communities address addiction and public health crises. Through workshops, coalition-building, and personal mentoring, she helped dismantle misconceptions surrounding substance use and those affected by it.
Recognition and Dedication
Amanda’s tireless work earned her both local and statewide recognition. She was awarded the Spirit of Public Health by the Wisconsin Public Health Association, a testament to her transformative impact. In addition to her formal role, she graduated from Fox Valley Technical College with her SAC-IT (Substance Abuse Counselor-In-Training) certification — further solidifying her dual roles as both practitioner and mentor.
“She never hesitated to share her own story, her knowledge, and her truth if it meant helping someone else feel seen,” said a former student who trained under Amanda. “She empowered so many of us.”
Her influence also extended to national circles, with several advocacy and harm reduction coalitions acknowledging her contributions, including efforts to integrate lived experience into public policy.
A Personal Touch That Transcended the Workplace
Amanda was equally celebrated for her warmth and authenticity in the workplace. Known for her “sassy” humor and signature affirmations, she uplifted her coworkers daily — a rare combination of professional grit and personal grace.
“She had this way of seeing the whole person — broken or whole, it didn’t matter. You felt safe in her presence,” one colleague recalled.
Amanda’s loss has reverberated across the community. Many local organizations have since paused to reflect on her impact and recommit to the values she championed: respect, empathy, and evidence-based care.
A Community Grieving — But Not Alone
In honoring Amanda’s legacy, local mental health resources have been spotlighted for anyone experiencing grief or distress. As her colleagues noted in a public statement, “As Amanda would have reminded us — none of us are alone.”
Community members are encouraged to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (by call, text, or chat at 988lifeline.org), or the Winnebago County Crisis Line at (920) 233-7707 for 24/7 emotional support.
Amanda Tennyson’s life was a powerful reminder of what it means to serve — not just through programs or policy, but through presence. As Wisconsin mourns this irreplaceable loss, many are choosing to carry forward her mission: seeing people first, and helping them heal with dignity.
