Three faculty members from the BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency Medicine were recognized by the UW Health Clinical Simulation Program last month for their outstanding contributions to simulation-based education.
Since its founding in 2011, the Clinical Simulation Program (CSP) has served as a hub for hands-on learning across the UW Health system of care, helping clinicians and educators strengthen their procedural skills, enhance patient care and improve care outcomes through immersive, team-based training. Each year, CSP presents the Simulation Awards to celebrate individuals who demonstrate innovation, collaboration and leadership in the field of simulation education.
This year’s honorees from the Department of Emergency Medicine are listed below.
Appreciation Award: Michael Lohmeier, MD
Dr. Michael Lohmeier, associate professor, serves as Lead Medical Director for Ground EMS and holds multiple medical director roles for area emergency medical services and with the UW Health Emergency Education Center. He was recognized for his steadfast partnership with CSP and his advocacy for simulation-based EMS education.
In the last few years, Lohmeier has helped to launch in-situ simulations for local EMS partners during the pandemic and been pivotal in supporting the growth of the UW Health paramedic program, now in its fourth and largest year. His trust in the CSP team and dedication to building community partnerships have expanded access to realistic training that enhances emergency preparedness across Dane County.
Up & Coming Simulationist: Taylor Cesarz, MD
Dr. Taylor Cesarz, assistant professor, was honored for her leadership and enthusiasm as an emerging simulation educator. Cesarz is a graduate of the MD program at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health and returned to the university for a fellowship in simulation education last year. During her fellowship, she led and facilitated multiple simulation sessions for emergency medicine residents and faculty, including RESUS training, central line workshops and interprofessional trauma simulations.
In addition to her clinical work as an emergency physician, Cesarz completed the CSP’s Simulation Facilitation and Debriefing courses, demonstrating her commitment to continuous growth as an educator. In announcing the award, CSP staff noted Cesarz’s creativity and organization in developing simulation curricula and experiences.
Simulationist Spotlight: Dana Resop, MD
Dr. Dana Resop, associate professor and an alumna of the UW School of Medicine and Public Health MD program, received the Simulationist Spotlight Award for her exceptional commitment to teaching and innovation in ultrasound education. Known for her energy and creativity, Resop has developed engaging, hands-on learning sessions that “gamify” ultrasound scanning and create an inviting space for learners of all levels. She also lends her expertise to other departments, sharing her skills and passion for ultrasound education across disciplines.
In addition to her contributions to ultrasound education, Resop serves as Assistant Director for Clinical Emergency Ultrasound at UW Health’s University Hospital and the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital.
The Department of Emergency Medicine proudly congratulates Drs. Lohmeier, Cesarz and Resop on these well-deserved honors and thanks them for their continued leadership in advancing simulation-based learning at UW Health.