HANNIBAL, Mo. —The Riedel Foundation has awarded $28,300 to the Craigmiles School of Nursing at Hannibal–LaGrange University. Combined with matching funds from the University, HLGU was able to purchase a new high‑tech, life‑sized patient simulator now ready for use in the upcoming school year.
The advanced manikin is fully operational in HLGU’s simulation lab and functions like a real adult patient. It can breathe, display heart and lung activity, respond to treatments, and be programmed for a wide range of medical scenarios. The simulator provides wireless operation and instant feedback, giving students and instructors a realistic and safe environment to practice assessments, clinical decision‑making, emergency response, medication administration, and communication skills.
“We are deeply grateful to the Riedel Foundation for making this investment in our students and our community,” said Dr. Ginger Wolgemuth, Director of the Craigmiles School of Nursing. “This simulator elevates the quality of education we can provide and ensures our graduates enter the workforce with strong clinical judgment, confidence, and hands‑on experience that mirrors real patient care.”
With increasing demands on rural healthcare systems and limited clinical rotation opportunities, high‑fidelity simulation has become an essential part of modern nursing education.
The investment will also benefit the broader community. Regional hospitals, long‑term care facilities, EMS agencies, and public health organizations rely on a highly trained workforce. The simulator will be available for community partners to conduct training workshops, supporting workforce development and improving patient outcomes throughout Northeast Missouri.
Dr. Michael Bukstein is the Lead Trustee of the Riedel Foundation. “This technology will help prepare future nurses, support local healthcare providers, and improve patient safety across the region,” said Bukstein, who is a retired surgeon.
In the last six years, the Riedel Foundation has awarded more than $110,000 to HLGU to support the University and various projects on campus.