Two faculty members from The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) College of Nursing, Dr. Tracy Lakin and Dr. Kimberly Budisalich, have been selected for the National League for Nursing’s (NLN) Leadership Development Program for Simulation Educators. This prestigious, year-long program is designed to enhance leadership skills in nursing simulation education, an essential component of preparing future nurses.

Advancing Nursing Education Through Innovation

 

Simulation has become a vital tool in nursing education, allowing students to practice hands-on skills in a controlled, high-tech environment. In addition to their current certification as healthcare simulation educators, Dr. Lakin and Dr. Budisalich’s selection for this competitive program further highlights their dedication to advancing nursing education through innovative simulation techniques.

    • Dr. Tracy Lakin, a three-time UAH graduate, has years of experience in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care nurse practitioner education and simulation-based learning. She has helped develop immersive simulations that bridge classroom knowledge with real-world clinical practice.
    • Dr. Kimberly Budisalich, the Graduate Simulation Coordinator at UAH, specializes in simulation development, telehealth training, and clinical evaluations. Her work has been recognized at national simulation conferences, and the Alabama League of Nursing honored her with the Lamplighter Award.

 

What This Means for UAH and Future Nurses

 

As nursing continues to evolve with advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, simulation plays an increasingly critical role in preparing students for complex healthcare environments. By participating in the NLN Leadership Institute, Dr. Lakin and Dr. Budisalich will bring cutting-edge simulation techniques back to UAH, enriching the educational experience for future nurses.

Their involvement also reinforces UAH Nursing’s commitment to innovation in nursing education, ensuring students gain the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in their careers.

 

For more information about simulation-based learning at UAH’s College of Nursing, visit UAH.edu/nursing.