SUNY Westchester Community College has officially cut the ribbon on its new Health Sciences Simulation Center for Interprofessional Education. This new teaching facility, also known as the Sim Lab, is dedicated to giving students hands-on experience in healthcare environments. Â
Grand Opening CeremonyÂ
The grand opening ceremony on October 29 included Westchester County officials, college leaders, and students. Attendees included Dr. Belinda Miles, president of SUNY Westchester Community College; George W. Contreras, the dean of the School of Health Sciences and Wellness; Dr. LeRoy Mitchell, the chair of the Board of Trustees; and Dr. Richard F. Gennaro, Jr., the department chair of Health, Performance and Physical Education. Westchester County executive Ken Jenkins and Susan Wollin, president of the WCC Foundation, also came to show their support. Â
The ceremony featured a guided walkthrough of the Sim Lab, a demonstration video showing training in the lab, and a reception at the WCC Art Gallery. The ceremony also included remarks from college students and county leaders. Â

The Sim Lab: What’s Inside Â
The Sim Lab, which was largely funded through contributions from the WCC Foundation, will allow students in healthcare professions like nursing and paramedic studies to practice clinical skills. This hands-on approach gives students the opportunity to practice clinical skills on advanced and life-like manikins (modes used for training in medicine), representing patients across the lifespan, from newborn to geriatric.
The Health Sciences Center also features specialized training spaces for obstetrics, respiratory care, radiologic technology, and emergency response. The Sim Lab supports programs across the School of Health Sciences and Wellness at the college. This allows students to complete up to one-third of their clinical hours that are required for nursing licensure. Â
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SUNY Westchester Community College offers more than 65 degrees and certificate programs including nursing, respiratory care, radiologic technology, and paramedic studies at one of the lowest tuition rates in New York State. It’s located at 75 Grasslands Road in Valhalla. Follow @sunywcc1 on Instagram to learn more about open house events, how to register for classes, and workforce development programs.
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