Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College’s Simulation Center has received provisional accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), becoming one of only two community college programs in Alabama to hold the designation.
The college received notification of the accreditation on August 10, 2026. The recognition follows an evaluation process designed to assess the quality of simulation-based education and adherence to established industry standards.
According to the college, SSH accreditation evaluates simulation programs based on best practices in design, development, delivery and evaluation. The process includes a comprehensive self-study and peer review to assess program effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.
With the designation, Gadsden State joins Coastal Alabama Community College as the only two community colleges in Alabama with SSH-accredited programs. Statewide, eight colleges and universities currently hold the accreditation, according to Gadsden State.
The accreditation supports Gadsden State’s Nursing Program and provides opportunities for interdisciplinary training across several Health Sciences programs, including Emergency Medical Services, Radiography, Medical Laboratory Technician, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assistant Technology, Surgical Technology and Dental Assisting.
The Simulation Center provides students with realistic, hands-on learning experiences designed to strengthen clinical skills, critical thinking and decision-making in a controlled educational environment. These experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge to simulated patient care situations under the guidance of qualified instructors.
“Receiving provisional accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare is a significant milestone for Gadsden State Community College and our Simulation Center,” said Dr. Evelyn Lightsey, simulation coordinator. “This achievement reflects our team’s dedication to providing high-quality, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students to meet the demands of today’s health care environment. We are proud to support not only our nursing students but also students across our Health Sciences programs as they develop the confidence, critical-thinking skills and clinical judgment needed to deliver exceptional patient care.”
The Simulation Center team includes Lightsey; Dr. Nicole Tolbert, simulation specialist; and Katie Bryant, part-time simulation assistant.
The team also recognized Dr. Cynthia Mullinax, nursing program director, and Dr. Joey Battles, dean of Health Sciences, for their support throughout the accreditation process.
The provisional accreditation represents another step in the college’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare education and provide students with simulation-based training opportunities as they prepare for careers in healthcare.
