Simulation educators form coalition to enhance training, education

October 15, 2024 (Volume 48, Number 4)

two women standing at front of room, women on right in blue blazer with microphone

people gather around a pregnant manniquin in the Simulation Center

At right, Linda Lewandowski, dean of the Kirkhof College of Nursing, gives remarks at a coalition meeting for area simulation educators. Sherri Fannon, executive director of the simulation center, is standing at left.

Photo Credit: courtesy of Kelly Klerk

Educators and practitioners who work in simulation education discussed how to collaborate and share practices during a meeting October 4 at Grand Valley's Interprofessional Simulation Center.

Sherri Fannon, executive director of the simulation center, said Hope College, Calvin University, Davenport College, Corewell Health and Trinity Health were among the organizations represented at the meeting.

Linda Lewandowski, dean of the Kirkhof College of Nursing, and Jeff Potteiger, interim dean of the College of Health Professions, welcomed attendees.

Lewandowski said she was excited to see what develops from the area simulation coalition. "I see the passion and dedication of the people who are here; they are invested in the education of our students," she said. "Through the coalition, we can enhance simulation education for all organizations."

Potteiger called the simulation center a "jewel on Health Hill" and added he invited a criminal justice faculty member to tour the facility. "He said simulation would fit within their environment and wanted to discuss how they can be a part of this," he said. "That's the value and importance of the education that goes on at the simulation center."

Fannon said the group will continue to meet quarterly. She added attendees discussed simulation best practices, vendors, equipment demonstrations and a communication platform to share ideas, events and professional development opportunities.