Dearest Simulation Community, 

With a heavy heart we share the news that on December 3, 2023, Madeline “Maddie” Lassche lost her battle with cancer and passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family. Many of you know that Maddie was the Executive Director of Simulation within the College of Nursing at the University of Utah. She was also a founding member and the first president of the Utah Simulation Coalition. Her vision was to provide simulation expertise and support to educators in academics as well as practice partners throughout Utah with an end goal of improved patient safety. We intend to carry on and expand on that vision for USC.

To honor Maddie’s legacy, the University of Utah has established the Maddie Lassche, DNP, RN, Simulation Education Scholar Award. In accordance with Maddie’s wishes, the award supports the advancement of simulation education, by recognizing an outstanding University of Utah Health staff, faculty or student who has demonstrated innovation and dedication to academic health through teaching and education-based scholarly activity, especially as related to simulation. The goal is to raise $25,000 so the award will be endowed. After discussing with Maddie so she could choose the focus of the award, her exact words: “I love it” – those of you that knew her, know this response typifies Maddie.  If you would like to donate in her honor, the family is requesting donations to this award in lieu of flowers or gifts.

From Maddie’s sister, Caroline Randall Sensiba:

"Thank you to everyone who reached out, sent beautiful stories albeit hilarious about Maddie. Steven Lassche and family would like to invite you all to her Celebration of Life. There will be a more formal invite later, but for those out of state we have decided on March 1, 2024. Place is Big Willies Bar. One of her favorite places for St. Patrick’s Day. March 1st is also the beginning of Woman’s History Month, Peanut Butter Lovers day, and Share a Smile day. All awesome for Madeline Lassche."

Those who knew Maddie have at least a story or two to tell, whether it be about her love for nursing, simulation or learning; devotion to and high regard for team members; infectious humor; loyal friendship; courage and tremendous resolve in the face of adversity; and/or enthusiasm for the possible. She was a beloved colleague and friend to many and she will be missed.