On April 22, 2026, an Interprofessional Education (IPE) event brought together a diverse cohort of more than 330 students representing multiple institutions and healthcare disciplines. This collaborative experience centered on a simulated patient case designed to foster interprofessional communication, critical thinking, and team-based problem-solving within a realistic clinical scenario.

Each year, this event continues to grow in both size and impact—and 2026 marked an exciting step forward. For the first time, we introduced a second case and hosted two separate sessions on the same day, allowing for even greater participation and engagement. This annual event is made possible through a strong partnership between Northwest AHEC, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and Winston-Salem State University.

Participants represented a wide spectrum of healthcare education programs. From Winston-Salem State University, students attended from Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Nursing, Healthcare Management, Therapeutic Recreation, Rehabilitation Counseling/Services,, Exercise Physiology, Social Work, and Medical Laboratory Science. The event also welcomed students from Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Physician Assistant Studies program and Forsyth Technical Community College’s Nursing program.

We are deeply grateful for the 34 facilitators whose expertise and guidance helped make this event such a success. Their ability to foster meaningful discussion and support student learning is at the heart of this experience. We are especially proud that two NW AHEC team members served as facilitators and found the experience both rewarding and inspiring. Special thanks to Stephanie Poindexter and Melanee Mills from NW AHEC for their engagement with students and their contributions to the day’s success.

Reflecting on the event, Stephanie Poindexter shared, “All of the students were so professional and knowledgeable. It was a pleasure facilitating this event!!”

Post-event evaluations are currently under review. This process will help identify key strengths, such as team engagement, communication effectiveness, and scenario realism, as well as areas for improvement to further enhance future iterations of the event.

This initiative highlights the essential role of interprofessional education in preparing future healthcare professionals to work effectively in collaborative, team-based environments. As we review outcomes and feedback, we remain committed to refining and strengthening this model.

We look forward to the continued evolution of this initiative and the lasting impact it will have on developing competent, compassionate, and collaborative healthcare professionals.