“The lab represents what’s possible when education, philanthropy and community partnership come together with a shared purpose,” said Michael Oshiki, M.D., President of RRMC.
The Huntington Ingalls Industries Education and Training Center at Riverside Regional Medical Center (RRMC) has been recognized by Becker’s Healthcare as one of the nation’s top medical simulation training and education programs, alongside nationally renowned university hospitals such as Johns Hopkins, Stanford and UCLA for the second consecutive year. This recognition reflects Riverside’s commitment to advancing clinical education and preparing care teams to deliver exceptional patient care. Yet the story of the Simulation Lab begins not with a facility, but with a person.
Dr. Brandon Rogers was a gifted physician, beloved colleague and vibrant presence whose life was tragically cut short in 2017. He was known not only for his clinical excellence, but also for his warmth, compassion and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
In 2020, on what would have been his 30th birthday, the Simulation Lab was dedicated in his memory through a partnership between the Rogers Family and the Riverside Foundation. Together, a space that honors his legacy was created, advancing the way care is taught, practiced and delivered.
Dr. Rogers’ impact extended well beyond medicine. A talented performer, he captured national attention through his appearance on “America’s Got Talent” and earned an invitation to perform with Boyz II Men in Las Vegas after the group discovered a video of his singing online. During the Simulation Lab dedication, Simon Cowell shared a special tribute video honoring the lasting impression Dr. Rogers left on those around him.
Today, that legacy lives on through a state-of-the-art learning environment where clinicians can prepare for some of the most complex and critical moments in patient care. The 8,400-squarefoot Simulation Lab features realistic care settings, including a medical intensive care unit, labor and delivery suite, emergency trauma bay and procedural skills lab.
In these spaces, physicians, nurses and care teams can safely practice high-stakes scenarios, refine technical skills and build confidence before caring for patients in real-world situations. By providing hands-on learning in a controlled environment, the Simulation Lab helps ensure that every patient benefits from a team prepared with both knowledge and experience.
With Gratitude
Your generosity helps sustain this vital training environment and supports the continued advancement of clinical education across Riverside. Thank you for making it possible to honor Dr. Rogers’ legacy while strengthening the future of care for every patient we serve.
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