Leading a Simulation Center: Inspiring Teams and Driving Change

In this episode we will be talking with Dr. Jenny O’Rourke, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN. Dr. O’Rourke is an Associate Professor and the interim Dean of the Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health at Loyola University Chicago. An innovative champion for clinical learning, Dr. O’Rourke has spent more than 15 years advancing healthcare education. Prior to her leadership roles at Loyola — which have included serving as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs, she was the Inaugural Director of the Center for Simulation at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Nursing. In this episode, Dr. O’Rourke sits down to discuss the art and power of collaboration and relationship building in simulation, and opportunities to move APRN education forward.

In this episode, host Nicola Contreras, speakswith Dr. Barbara Blackwell, an Assistant Professor, Chairperson, and the Executive Director of Simulation Learning & Research for Undergraduate Program School of Nursing at Hampton University. Dr. Blackwell shares more about her role as chair of INACSL’s IncluDe Committee, the power of collaboration, and what she’s looking forward to in the future of healthcare simulation.

In this episode, host Nicola Contreras, speaks with Dr. Ashley Franklin, W. F. “Tex” and Pauline Curry Rankin Endowed Professor at Texas Christian University, and former INACSL President and Board member, about cross-collaboration. Dr. Franklin shares more about the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, how peer facilitation strengthens teams, her experience working with global partners, and more.

In this episode, host Nicola Contreras, speaks with Dr. Marian Luctkar-Flude, an Associate Professor at Queen’s University School of Nursing and Co-President of The Canadian Alliance of Nurse Educators using Simulation (CAN-Sim) about how global partnerships, virtual simulation, and shared scholarship are expanding access to high‑quality simulation, supporting faculty development, and shaping the future of nursing education worldwide.

In this Season Five kickoff episode, Host Nicola Contreras talks with representatives from the Washington Board of Nursing and the Washington State Simulation Plan Task Force, Tiffany Zyniewicz and Alison C. Bradywood, about their partnership and process for determining the balance between best practices and feasibility of high-quality simulation as 2:1 clinical replacement.

In this episode, Host Jasline Moreno and Dr. Kellie Bryant explore how AI is elevating nursing education by making simulation experiences more engaging, personalized, and effective. Through tools like virtual patients, tailored chatbots, and adaptive learning pathways, AI is ultimately contributing to improved patient care. Dr. Bryant highlights how thoughtful AI adoption can ease faculty workload and expand access to knowledge, offering a promising path forward for educators embracing innovation.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Sim, Dr. Crystal Murillo joins host Jasline Moreno for a powerful conversation on leadership, equity, and the evolving future of simulation. They explore the importance of culturally responsive practices, balancing career and life, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. With insights on representation, inclusion, and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals, this episode offers inspiration and practical takeaways for educators at every level.

In this episode, host Jasline Moreno and Dr. Michelle L. Aebersold explore how extended reality is opening new possibilities for simulation-based learning. From creative XR projects to practical integration tips, they break down what educators need to know to confidently embrace the future of simulation.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Sim, we’re joined by Dr. Tiffani Chidume — a nurse educator, researcher, and simulationist whose work centers on equity in simulation, immersive technology, and inclusive learning environments. Dr. Chidume shares insights from her recent presentation at the 2025 INACSL conference on equity-centered simulation design and the integration of virtual reality in nursing education. Tune in as we explore her research, conference reflections, and forward-looking perspective on how VR and inclusive practices are transforming healthcare simulation.

In this episode, Dr. Beth Hallmark shares her insights on what it takes to lead a successful simulation center. From fostering a culture of collaboration and positivity to navigating challenges with resilience, Dr. Hallmark reflects on the leadership strategies that drive meaningful change. Tune in to hear real-world examples of how strong leadership can transform teams, elevate performance, and inspire innovation in healthcare simulation.