Two prominent figures in healthcare simulation, Jason Konzelmann and Syretta Spears, have been honored as Fellows of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare. This lifetime achievement award recognizes their exceptional contributions to the field of simulation in education, research, and service. Konzelmann directs the Clinical Skills and Simulation Center at UCF’s College of Medicine, while Spears leads the Simulation, Technology, Innovation, and Modeling (STIM) Center at UCF’s College of Nursing. Both were inducted during the International Meeting on Simulation in Healthcare in Orlando, joining a select group of fewer than 150 global experts who have received this distinction.

Konzelmann's work at the College of Medicine focuses on creating simulated environments where medical students can practice clinical skills without risking patient safety. His center offers hands-on training in patient interaction, suturing, ultrasounds, and emergency scenarios. Konzelmann emphasizes that simulation allows students to learn from mistakes in a controlled setting, ultimately improving patient outcomes. He has been actively involved with the Society for Simulation in Healthcare since 2013, serving as chair of the Best Practices Workshop Committee and founding the Assessment Affinity Group to promote innovative assessment strategies in simulation education.

Spear's leadership at the STIM Center has significantly advanced nursing education through simulation-based experiences. Over the past decade, she has facilitated over 11,000 contact hours annually for nursing students, including interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative learning activities like an "Escape Rescue Room." Her commitment to excellence has earned the STIM Center two international accreditations. Spears holds dual certifications as a healthcare simulation educator and an advanced certified healthcare simulation operations specialist. She also plays key roles within the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, contributing to certification reviews and workforce identification initiatives.

The induction of Konzelmann and Spears highlights the growing importance of healthcare simulation in preparing future medical professionals. Their dedication to enhancing patient safety and care through innovative educational methods sets a new standard for the industry. As they continue to push boundaries in simulation technology and training, their influence will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare education.