What You Missed: SIM Summit California

On Friday, March 13th, the simulation community came together at SIM Summit California’s host location: California Baptist University for a day focused on innovation, collaboration, and practical ideas for advancing healthcare simulation education.

From discussions about leadership challenges in simulation programs to hands-on exploration of hybrid simulation methods, the event provided a space for educators and simulation leaders to exchange ideas and learn from one another.

Attendees started with the morning with a morning iced coffee bar provide by SIM Summit California Sponsor, Interact Solution and breakfast provided by Chick-fil-A (not a sponsor, just wanted to note this), giving participants an opportunity to connect before the day’s sessions began.

One of the highlights of the summit was a presentation from Sarah E. Pearce, PhD, CHSE, Director of Simulation and Standardized Patients at California Baptist University. Dr. Pearce shared insights from her research presentation:

“Mindfulness Matters: A Mixed Methods Study on Its Effectiveness for SP Stress Reduction.”

Her work explored strategies for supporting standardized patients and reducing stress within simulation environments, a topic that resonated strongly with educators who rely on SP programs to deliver realistic learning experiences.

Dr. Pearce also provided a unique look inside California Baptist University’s simulation program with her session:

“Inside the Simulation: A 360° Nursing Experience.”

The presentation offered attendees a comprehensive view of how immersive simulation experiences are integrated into nursing education at CBU.

The summit also featured presentations that explored both the strategic and technical sides of simulation.

Amy Cowperthwait CEO, RN, MSN, CNS, CHSE-A, CEO of Avkin, delivered a thought-provoking session titled:

“Achieving Radical Change When It Feels Like Your Hands Are Tied.”

Her talk focused on how simulation leaders can drive meaningful program growth and innovation even when facing institutional constraints.

Attendees also learned about emerging simulation approaches during the session:

“Hybrid Simulation – Incorporating Wearable Simulators,”

presented by Laura Nockengost and Megan Weldon, CHSE. The session demonstrated how wearable simulators can be integrated with standardized patient programs to create highly realistic training experiences for healthcare learners.

SIM Summit California highlighted what makes the healthcare simulation community so unique: a shared commitment to improving education, supporting learners, and preparing healthcare professionals for the moments that matter most.

From engaging presentations to meaningful networking conversations, the event demonstrated how collaboration across institutions continues to push the field of simulation forward.

We are grateful to California Baptist University, our presenters, and our sponsor, Interact Solution, for helping make this year’s summit a success.

Events like SIM Summit California highlight the value of bringing the simulation community together in a space dedicated to learning, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. From new research on standardized patient programs to innovative approaches like hybrid simulation with wearable simulators, the conversations sparked throughout the day will continue shaping how simulation programs evolve.

If you were unable to attend this year’s summit, we hope to see you at a future SIM Summit event. These gatherings are designed to provide practical insights, meaningful networking opportunities, and a chance to connect with educators who are advancing healthcare simulation across the country.

Follow @Avkin for announcements about upcoming SIM Summit events and opportunities to join the conversation.