School of Nursing Unveils Remodeled Simulation Lab

Pictured from left to right: School of Nursing Chair Sara Kim, nursing student Tsitsi Pazvakawambwa, College of Health & Human Services Dean Emmanuel Rudatsikira, Andrews University President John Wesley Taylor V, Andrews University Board Chairman Artur Stele, Chief Administration Officer for AdventHealth Olesea Azevedo, Multi-State Division CFO at AdventHealth Karsten Randolph, Andrews University Assistant Vice President for Facilities Management Steve Nash and AdventHealth Endowed Chair of Nursing Barbara Harrison participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the School of Nursing’s new simulation lab. (Photo by Nicholas Gunn)

The Andrews University School of Nursing has taken a significant leap forward in nursing education with the unveiling of its newly remodeled Skills and Simulation Lab. This upgraded facility, made possible through generous support from AdventHealth, aims to provide students with an immersive and technologically advanced training environment that mirrors real-world health care settings.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony held on March 3, 2025, in Marsh Hall on the Andrews University campus, AdventHealth Endowed Chair of Nursing Barbara Harrison reflected on the transformative journey that led to the remodeled lab. She shared that the initiative began in September 2023 when the University identified a potential funding opportunity to enhance its nursing training facilities. Following thorough research, visits to other simulation labs and meticulous strategic planning, the proposal for the new lab received approval in March 2024. Construction began in July, marking a significant milestone in the University’s dedication to advancing nursing education and providing students with cutting-edge learning experiences.

When students returned in August, they were welcomed into a completely reimagined learning space. "The look on their faces was priceless," said Harrison. The renovation introduced a spacious, state-of-the-art simulation lab, replacing what was previously three separate rooms. The upgraded facility now features a seven-patient bay area, a 30-seat classroom and a specialized simulation suite. The suite includes three patient rooms, a medication room and a dedicated debriefing area, fostering an immersive and dynamic learning environment.

University leadership, students and faculty were joined by representatives from AdventHealth and the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists to celebrate the grand opening at the ribbon cutting ceremony. The event was attended by several guests, including Ted Wilson, president of the General Conference, Loren Hamel, former president of Corewell Health South, and Alexander Bryant, president of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. Several other University board members and faculty leaders were also present to witness the ceremony.

President John Wesley Taylor V emphasized the broader significance of the new space, linking it to the ministry of Jesus Christ. “Healing and teaching were central to Jesus’ ministry, and this facility embodies those principles,” he stated. “This lab is not just about skills development; it’s about shaping nurses who will extend Christ’s healing ministry in their careers.”

The facility features cutting-edge technology, including advanced audiovisual systems for faculty to conduct real-time simulations and debriefings. A newly installed Pyxis MedStation will provide students with hands-on experience in medication administration, while upgraded crash carts and EKG machines will enhance their clinical training. Among the additions are multiple next-generation simulation mannequins equipped with artificial intelligence, lifelike movements and conversational speech capabilities. These mannequins enable students to practice responding to a range of medical scenarios, from routine patient care to emergency interventions.

Senior nursing student Tsitsi Pazvakawambwa, president of the Student Nurse Association, shared her enthusiasm for the new facility. “When I first started this program, our simulation lab was outdated, and we often had to improvise. Now, with this state-of-the-art facility, students have access to realistic, high-quality training tools that will significantly enhance their learning experience,” she said. “I’m incredibly grateful for what they will offer future nursing cohorts.”

AdventHealth played a pivotal role in making this vision a reality, not only through financial contributions but also by providing expertise to guide the development of the space. In recognition of this invaluable partnership, Taylor presented Olesea Azevedo, AdventHealth’s chief administration officer, with a “Legacy of Leadership” gift—a replica of the J.N. Andrews sculpture—representing the University’s mission and shared commitment to health care excellence.

Azevedo remarked, “Nursing is a calling, and as Adventists, we believe in a different kind of health care—one that goes beyond physical health to focus on whole person care. A health care that is focused on one's mind, body and spirit. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Andrews University to extend this care to more communities. Jesus has called us to this mission, and we are committed to fulfilling it.”

Sara Kim, chair of the School of Nursing, highlighted the importance of the new lab in equipping students for their future roles. “The importance of simulation is that students are able to practice skills in a low-stress environment, which enables them to do their best once they enter real clinical settings,” Kim explained. “This space allows our students to gain confidence and refine their abilities before they ever step into a hospital.”

As the School of Nursing continues to expand its resources and elevate its standards, this new simulation lab stands as a testament to the University’s dedication to training compassionate, skilled and mission-driven health care professionals. With the lab now in use, faculty and students are embracing the new opportunities it provides, ensuring that Andrews University remains at the forefront of nursing education for years to come.