Simulation is redefining how nurses learn, collaborate, and step into emerging roles across the entire care continuum. In this episode, Dr. Susan Kilroy, inaugural Endowed Professor in Healthcare Simulation and Innovation at Villanova University’s Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, discusses her unconventional path from business student and injured college athlete to pediatric nurse, educator, and national simulation leader. She describes how precepting in the NICU sparked her love of teaching and how early mock codes in Chicago hospitals grew into a research-backed, interprofessional simulation program that improved confidence and teamwork in emergencies. Dr. Kilroy outlines Villanova’s vision for a reimagined sim center featuring an immersive 3D “street-to-OR-to-home” environment, AI-enabled VR headsets for independent practice with real-time feedback, and control-room and ambient analytics that strengthen clinical judgment rather than replace it. She also explores virtual nursing and care-coordination models, the impact of technology on access and cost, and the importance of using AI wisely while keeping eyes and hands on the patient. Finally, Sue calls for stronger bridges between academia and health systems so students, new grads, and practicing clinicians can learn together across settings. Tune in and learn how simulation, AI, and new care models are reshaping nursing education and practice! About Sue Kilroy: Susan Kilroy, PhD, RN, CHSE, is a nationally recognized leader in simulation-based nursing education and the inaugural holder of the Kreider Endowed Professorship in Health Care Simulation and Innovation at Villanova University’s M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing. With a career defined by scholarship, innovation, and strategic leadership, she is advancing the college’s simulation initiatives, strengthening partnerships, and expanding Villanova’s presence in the national and international simulation community. Before joining Villanova, Dr. Kilroy served as Associate Professor and Director of the Paley Interprofessional Simulation Lab at Temple University and previously led the launch of the M. Christine Schwartz Experiential Learning and Simulation Laboratory at the University of Illinois Chicago, earning honors such as the Dean’s Faculty Catalyst Award and recognition as a Pinnacle Nurse Leader. Her funded research explores the use of simulation to assess interprofessional collaboration, clinical skill development, and community-level factors such as bias, racism, and social determinants of health in care for underserved populations. A widely published scholar and invited speaker, Dr. Kilroy brings deep expertise supported by a second degree accelerated BSN from Villanova, a PhD in Nursing Science from the University of Illinois Chicago, an MSN from Gonzaga University, and a BS in Business from Mount Saint Mary’s College. Resources: Connect with and follow Sue Kilroy on LinkedIn. Follow Villanova University's M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing on LinkedIn and explore their website! Learn more about the SIMULATION INSTITUTE 2026 here. Discover more about the Annual Research Symposium here.
