Cowley College to Showcase New Simulation Center

Cowley College invites community members to an open house of the newly constructed state-of-the-art Nursing Simulation Center on Thursday, February 13th, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. The event will be in the lower level of the Winfield Health Care Center at 1305 E. 5th.

At 2:15 P.M., representatives from Cowley College, William Newton Hospital, Butler Community College, and Southwestern College will officially sign a partnership agreement, highlighting the collaborative efforts that have made this facility possible. A ribbon-cutting ceremony, alongside the Winfield Chamber of Commerce, will occur at 2:30 P.M.

The Nursing Simulation Center will enhance student training by offering realistic, hands-on experiences in a controlled environment, with realistic patient simulators, cutting-edge medical technology, and immersive learning tools. The simulation center allows students to refine their clinical skills, build confidence, and practice critical decision-making in various medical scenarios.

“This center will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals by providing them with an environment that closely mirrors real-world medical settings,” said Chris Cannon, Faculty Chair, Health & Human Services, EMS Director at Cowley College.

The facility includes interactive mannequins capable of simulating breathing, heartbeats, verbal responses, and specialized equipment for practicing essential nursing procedures like IV placement, wound care, and medication administration. The center promotes teamwork and reflection through peer collaboration and recorded simulation reviews for constructive feedback.

“The success of this project is the result of strong partnerships and shared dedication to improving healthcare education,” said Cannon. “With contributions from William Newton Hospital, patient beds donated by SCK Health, and additional support from Butler Community College and Southwestern College, we are creating a dynamic learning environment for future nurses.”

In addition to the Simulation Center, Cowley College and Southwestern College signed a 2+2 Nursing Agreement on December 12th, 2024. This agreement, affirmed by Cowley College President Dr. Michelle Schoon and Southwestern College President Dr. Liz Frombgen, establishes a seamless pathway for Cowley students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Under this agreement, students will complete an Associate of Science degree in Pre-Nursing at Cowley College during their first two years before transferring to Southwestern College to complete their BSN over the following two years. This initiative underscores the commitment of both institutions to student success and workforce development in the healthcare industry.

Visitors to the open house can tour the facility, explore its cutting-edge training equipment, and learn more about Cowley College’s nursing program and admissions process. The event is free and open to the public, offering a unique glimpse into the future of nursing education in our community.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu