Clinical Simulation Center named in honor of Jo Ann Bingham
Radford University’s new College of Nursing has another new reason to celebrate. The university announced Friday, March 22, the naming of the Jo Ann Bingham Clinical Simulation Center in memory of a remarkable local business owner and philanthropist.
The center’s two locations, at Radford University’s Cook Hall in Radford, Virginia, and in the Roanoke Higher Education Center (RHEC) in Roanoke, Virginia, will share the new name.
A packed room of members from the College of Nursing faculty, university supporters, administration and Board of Visitors members attended the naming ceremony at the RHEC.
“Jo Ann’s life was devoted to supporting others,” said Penny Helms White, vice president for university advancement. “Her legacy is now permanent both here in Roanoke and on our main campus in Radford, and we hope it provides inspiration for how others can leave a lasting impact.”
Bingham’s estate gift, a testament to her abiding interest in healthcare and education, will provide sustained support for the Clinical Simulation Center’s mission.
Wendy Downey, interim dean of the College of Nursing, expressed gratitude for Bingham’s generosity, emphasizing its profound impact on nursing education. “The generous gift from the Jo Ann Bingham trust will help provide the highest quality clinical simulation experiences for College of Nursing students for years to come,” Downey said.
Bret Danilowicz, president of Radford University, underscored the significance of this dedication in the context of the university’s commitment to community welfare and excellence in nursing education.
“Today’s dedication of the Jo Ann Bingham Clinical Simulation Center is an amplification of Radford University’s commitment to caring for our communities, and a testament to the power of philanthropy,” Danilowicz said.
The simulation center locations serve as hubs for simulated healthcare environments. They equip students and educators with the necessary resources to cultivate competence and compassion in clinical practice.
Danilowicz hailed the center’s role in preparing nursing students for the challenges of their future careers, noting its alignment with Radford University’s longstanding tradition of excellence in nursing education. “With this generous contribution, Radford nurses will have what they need to be competent and caring professionals,” Danilowicz said.
Born in 1936 on a farm in Bland County, Virginia, Jo Ann Bingham’s journey epitomized the American dream. Before embarking on her successful career in real estate, she worked with C & P Telephone, showcasing her dedication to service and community from the outset. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Mountain View Realty, a business that would serve Radford and its neighboring regions.
Through Bingham’s enduring legacy, future generations of nursing students will continue to benefit from unmatched educational experiences, ensuring their readiness to serve and heal communities.