Carla Pugh, PhD, MD, Clinical Director

Dr. Carla Pugh is a researcher, surgeon and inventor. She earned her undergraduate degree at U.C. Berkeley in neurobiology, and her degree in medicine at Howard University School of Medicine. After completing her surgical training at Howard University Hospital she attended Stanford University, and obtained her PhD in education. Dr. Pugh is currently board certified in surgery, and recently received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. Her research interests include the use of simulation technology for clinical education.

George Keeler, Program Administrative Director

George Keeler received his graduate degrees from "Thunderbird," the Graduate School of Global Management, and Michigan State University. Prior to this position, George held management positions with GE Healthcare, Datex-Ohmeda and CR Bard. He enjoys good wine and food pairings, novels, music, and family and friend gatherings. George has a passion for travel and sports, especially downhill skiing, hockey and sailing. He embraces innovation and change.

Laurie Pirtle earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and her MSN in Nursing Program Development and Leadership from Edgewood College. Laurie's nursing career includes experience at UW Hospital and Clinics, Edgewood College's Nursing Program, Meriter Hospital's mobile unit and Fort Memorial Hospital as a clinical nurse educator. More recently, Laurie managed the Center for Nursing Excellence Simulation Center, and currently works for the William S. Middleton Veterans Memorial Hospital assisting in simulation program development. Laurie enjoys watching the Packers, watching movies with her family and participating in outdoor activities.

Mark Johanneck earned his Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He has 10 years experience working for the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, six of which as a technology liaison for the Clinical Teaching and Assessment Center. Mark is an outdoor enthusiast, fan of all Wisconsin sports and enjoys travel.

Susan Olson earned her diploma in nursing from Madison General Nursing Program, her Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and her MSN in Nursing Program Development and Leadership from Edgewood College. Sue's nursing career includes experience at St. Luke's Hospital, Methodist Hospital, Meriter Hospital and Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital. More recently, Sue coordinated the American Heart Association certification courses for the UW Hospital and Clinics Emergency Education Center. Sue has two Morgan horses, and enjoys riding into the sunset with her family as well as illustrating children's books.

Melissa Gerke earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in December 2009. She carries a nursing assistant certification, and spent time working as a certified nursing assistant for both Edgerton Memorial Community Hospital and Meriter Hospital. Melissa joins the administrative team with more than five years experience in marketing, sales and customer service. In her spare time she enjoys home improvement projects, watching Packer games, scrapbooking and travel.

Jane Banning

Education Consultant