Michelle Hughes

Dr. Michelle Hughes is an Assistant Professor (CHS) in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. She serves as the Division Chief of Emergency Medicine Simulation and Fellowship Director for the Emergency Medicine Simulation Fellowship. She is also the Physician Lead for Clinical Scheduling and a practicing emergency medicine physician at University Hospital and East Madison Hospital.

Education:

• Undergraduate: University of Maryland, College Park
• Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine
• Residency: University of Chicago Medical Center
• Fellowship: Cook County Health / Rush University Medical Center – Simulation

Research Interests: Dr. Hughes is nationally recognized for her work in simulation-based medical education, particularly in emergency medicine. Her interests include the development of interprofessional education programs, curriculum design for Generation Z learners, and the integration of simulation into clinical training. She also investigates sepsis resuscitation protocols, focusing on fluid therapy timing, antibiotic administration, and the impact of comorbidities such as obesity and heart failure.

Scientific Awards:

• Early Career Educator Award, SAEM Simulation Academy (2025)
• Faculty Award for Excellence in Clinical Care, BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency Medicine (2024)
• Emerging Leader Award, Society of Simulation in Healthcare Emergency Medicine Section (2023)
• Simulationist of the Year, UW Health Clinical Simulation Program (2022)

Leadership & Service: Dr. Hughes holds leadership roles in national simulation organizations. She has served on the executive boards of the Emergency Medicine Section of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) and the Simulation Academy of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM), including as Secretary. At UW, she developed the Advanced Clinical Education and Skills (ACES) sessions for faculty and advanced practice providers.