Dickinson State University (DSU) and the Dickinson Fire Department (DFD) have formalized a partnership to enhance emergency medical services (EMS) training through an on-campus collaboration. This agreement, outlined in a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), enables DFD personnel to utilize DSU’s state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab to improve training and preparedness for real-world emergency scenarios.
By leveraging DSU’s cutting-edge facilities, first responders will gain hands-on experience in training simulations. These realistic scenarios will better prepare emergency personnel to provide high-quality care in critical situations, ultimately benefiting the Dickinson community.
“This partnership with Dickinson State University allows us to take our EMS training to the next level,” said Jeremy Presnell, Dickinson Fire Department chief. “By utilizing their advanced nursing simulation lab, we can create realistic, high-fidelity training scenarios that better prepare our responders for real-world emergencies. Strong partnerships with great institutions like DSU help us better prepare our team to serve the community when every second counts.”
DSU’s commitment to serving the region through education and community engagement aligns with the goals of this partnership. “We are excited to collaborate with the Dickinson Fire Department to support their mission of protecting and serving our community,” said Holly Gruhlke, DSU vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. “By integrating our resources and their expertise, we can help strengthen emergency response training and ensure first responders are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to save lives.”
DFD will also provide DSU students access to its CPR training, a necessity for individuals who work in education, healthcare, childcare, and healthcare.
“We are excited to partner with the Dickinson Fire Department to enhance emergency medical training in our community,” said Collette Christoffers and Carey Haugen, DSU co-nursing administrators. “This collaboration is at the heart of what nursing means at DSU. Who knows, in the future, we could even see interagency training that would be an outstanding addition to simulation opportunities at DSU and in our community.”
DSU continues efforts to enhance all health science education in numerous ways. The institution is working to bring cadaver laboratories, both physical and virtual to campus. These labs are anticipated to be available as early as the 2025 fall semester.
For information on health science educational opportunities at DSU, please contact the Office of Admissions at dsu.hawk@dickinsonstate.edu or 701-502-4390. To get involved in the development of health sciences at DSU through giving, please contact the DSU Heritage Foundation at www.dsuheritagefoundation.org or 701-483-2486.