Southeastern nursing program receives new simulation laboratory gift
Thursday, December 14, 2017
by: Tonya Lowentritt
NURSING SIMULATION LAB DEDICATED - Southeastern Louisiana University’s nursing program received a new simulation laboratory through funds donated by Southeastern alumnus John Manzella in memory of his wife Beverly Manzella. The Manzellas were recognized in a recent ceremony naming the simulation lab in their honor. From left are nursing students Madison Bentivegna, Lindsey Barrose, Lauren Domiano, Lydia Ngonogo, Amber Vernon, Manzella, Shiri Lindsey, Troy Connolly and Chante Jones.
HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University’s nursing program is home to a new simulation
pediatric laboratory, made possible through funds donated by Southeastern alumnus
John Manzella.
Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences Ann Carruth said in today’s
medical environment quality of care is paramount, and Southeastern’s nursing program
ensures its graduates are ready to serve patients from day one with a rigorous process
of learning and preparation. Simulation laboratories have become very important in
this process.
“Students need to have a realistic bio-feedback environment where they can practice
before they move on to real patients,” she said. “Southeastern has one simulation
lab and, thanks to the kindness of John Manzella, will establish a second one to focus
on pediatric experiences.”
“John Manzella and his wife Beverly, who passed away this spring, have been long
time supporters of the Southeastern nursing program,” said Vice President for University
Advancement Wendy Lauderdale. “This donation and support was a loving way to continue
their presence and kindness by helping those who will help others. John was Beverly’s
main caregiver during her illness so he understands the importance of quality care.”
“The simulation lab helped me understand patient responses and needs. It correlated
so well with lectures, as it put situations into perspective,” said Southeastern nursing
graduate Ashlen Brown. “We were able to physically handle situations and carry out
the nursing process. This pediatric lab will be a great boost to the Southeastern
program.”
“I hope that this simulation lab will make a difference in the lives of these
nursing students,” Manzella said. “If it helps them to prepare and learn to be the
strong medical caregivers they need to be, our wish has come to fruition.”
“The new pediatric simulation lab for which Mr. Manzella has provided will be
an incredible next step for our students. This will give students real-life experiences
much like they will have in clinical training,” Carruth added. “It will also give
students access to scenarios that are deemed ‘low-volume, high-risk,’ providing invaluable
practice to manage urgent health issues that rarely occur yet have a serious risk
level.”
Lauderdale said the support of the Manzellas will serve the needs of hospital
patients for many years to come as Southeastern nursing students graduate prepared
and ready for careers in which they take care of others.