Melissa Lowther is a Digital Solutions Specialist for CAE Healthcare. While Melissa now focuses on designing and implementing AV systems and center management system software, she is also a passionate Simulation Operations Specialist. In Melissa's ten years in the simulation field, she has run operations for pre-licensure nursing and medical students, in-situ programs, and continuing education for licensed hospital staff. She seizes every opportunity to continue with hands-on operations specialist activities. Melissa achieved the Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist (CHSOS) designation in 2017, the CHSOS - Advanced designation in 2022, and was inducted into the SSH Academy of Fellows at IMSH 2023.
Melissa, you supported the SSH Fund in 2023 and you already made your 2024 gift at IMSH in San Diego. Why is supporting the SSH Fund important to you?
The SSH Fund is important to me because only some have access to funding to attend events or explore research opportunities. We need greater access to opportunities like these and as early as possible for those newer to the industry. The community needs representation from all areas of the globe, from all sizes of simulation programs. The value of the SSH Fund is evident to me; with more significant community evolvement, the sky is the limit.
What does SSH mean to you professionally and personally?
SSH is more than just a professional society. I was lucky to attend an IMSH within a few months of starting my first operations position. It was immediately apparent to me that this community was something unusual and unique in the best way possible. Within a few years, I had a professional community to draw upon for my daily role and had made friends with whom I genuinely enjoyed working and spending time. Without SSH, I doubt I would have ever met many of these folks who I hold near and dear.
What would you say to someone out there who is considering making a gift and just needs a little more persuading?
Donating to the SSH Fund is about giving back to our community, but beyond that, it is about continuing to impact patient safety and outcomes positively. Make a reasonable pledge for your budget, and then challenge yourself to exceed it.