Dr. Carolyn Lewis earned her bachelor’s degree (1992) from Brigham Young University, and her master’s degree in nursing education (1997) from the University of Phoenix, and her PhD in nursing education research (2005) in psychometrics and testing from Texas Woman’s University. She has worked clinically as a nurse in various healthcare settings. Dr. Lewis teaches face-to-face lectures and simulation classes in the BSN program and online courses in the RN to BSN and MSN programs. Dr. Lewis is an active member of the Utah Simulation Coalition. She has been teaching in simulation for several years, and last year started incorporating virtual reality (VR) into her students’ simulation experiences.

Looking at the wide smile of her first Sim mannikin in 2012, little did Sharon know the many stimulating steps Simulation would bring into her life! Seeking training from Intermountain Health, several professional organizations, and the post-graduate course through Boise State University brought her into contact with the enthusiastic group of Simulationists in the Utah Simulation Coalition. Professional credentials as a CHSE Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator, presenting INACSL Standards to groups of nursing faculty, Facilitating for Intermountain Healthcare—an accredited Simulation organization, and serving on the Sim Coalition board are the highlights of the past few years. Virtual Reality (VR) was a welcome addition a few years ago, enhancing learning for several levels of undergraduate nursing students and the faculty who mentor them. Sharon Wheeler recently served as the President of the Utah Simulation Coalition.