Heiddy DiGregorio

Dr. Heiddy DiGregorio is an Assistant Professor and Director of Simulation and Interprofessional Education at the University of Delaware's School of Nursing. She holds certifications as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE), and Certified Nurse Educator (CNE). With 35 years of clinical experience, she integrates simulation methodologies across nursing curricula to enhance clinical competencies.

Education:

• PhD in Nursing Education, Villanova University (2020)
• MSN, University of Delaware (2013)
• BSN, University of Delaware (2013)
• ADN, Essex Community College (1986)

Research Focus: Her work centers on simulation efficacy in nursing education, including disaster response training, multiple-patient scenarios, and VR-based psychomotor skill development. She investigates how simulated environments bridge theoretical knowledge and clinical practice, particularly in pediatric and interprofessional contexts.

Publication Trends: Dr. DiGregorio's scholarship emphasizes practical applications of healthcare simulation, with recurring themes in disaster preparedness, pediatric care innovations, and interprofessional team dynamics. Her recent work explores psychological safety in simulation education and emerging VR technologies.

Awards:

• Frontline Simulation Champion (2018)
• National League of Nursing Leadership Development Program for Simulation Educators (2018)
• University of Delaware Horn Program Hen Hatch (2015)
• Nominated for Nursing Alumni Star Award (2019)

Grants & Advising: She leads as Principal Investigator on projects including a VR psychomotor skills study (2022-present) and organizational skill development research funded by NLN and INACSL. She advises PhD students and coordinates simulation curricula while serving on national standards committees.

Leadership: As Director of Simulation and Interprofessional Education, she oversees simulation initiatives at UD's Center for Simulation Innovation and chairs the School of Nursing Curriculum Committee (2022-2024).