Meet the Team
Bringing expertise in simulation methodologies, surgical simulation and skills training, implementation science and evaluation, simulation technology and innovation, medical education, and patient quality & safety, our team collaborates to offer high-quality simulation to improve clinical outcomes and immersive learning across the University of Chicago Health System.
Priti Jani, MD, MPH
Faculty Director
Dr. Jani is a pediatric hospitalst with expertise in rapid-cycle deliberate practice as a simulation method to driver mastery of skills, preparing teams for high-stakes clinical events. She provides clinical oversight for the Simulation Center and connects simulation to resuscitation readiness and performance across the health system. Connect.
Heather Himelhoch, PhD, MPH
Executive Director
Dr. Himelhoch is a health services researcher and healthcare leader intersted in the application of simulation as an implementation strategy to accelerate achievement of clinicial outcomes. Part of the Executive Team for the Center for Digital Transformation, she is bridging the gap between traditional clinical simulation and digital innovation. Connect.
Neal Hluska
Simulation Manager, Innovation & Resuscitation
Bringing nearly a decade of simulation experience, Neal oversees the daily operations of the simulation center and serves as the manager of both the Resuscitation Core – our AHA Training Institute that provides resuscitation and life support training across the health system – and our innovation programming ranging from augmented reality to 3D printing. Connect.
Allison Anderson, MS, RRT, CHSE
Education Specialist
Allie brings over a decade of simulation experience, combined with a clinical background in respiratory therapy she is dedicated to maximizing learning through simulation-based training.Connect.
Kia Pedraza
Simulation Operations Specialist
Kia brings a background in military medical readiness and applied learning and has experience supporting clinical research. Connect.
Chuka Onuh
Student Simulation Specialist
Chuka is a second-year medical student at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine with interests in health policy, medical education, and trauma care. He is passionate about medical simulation that enhances clinical training, team communication, and system preparedness in acute care settings.
