Health Sciences remembers Dr. David Wilks

David Hunt Wilks, MD, 70, of Dilliner, PA, passed away April 14, 2021, following a lengthy illness. Wilks was an associate professor at WVU's School of Medicine and former assistant dean for technology in medical education and medical director of the David and Jo Ann Shaw Center for Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS).

Wilks attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he completed his undergraduate education, attended medical school and completed residency training in anesthesia. He was then employed by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he not only practiced clinically, but also served as program director for many years.

In 1997, David and his husband moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he served as program director, as well as founder of the Basic and Advanced Training Computer Assisted Visual Experience (BATCAVE) Healthcare Simulation Program for the University of New Mexico School of Medicine.

After nine years in New Mexico, David and his husband returned to the East Coast where he joined the School of Medicine to build and develop the STEPS Center. His monumental efforts and vision were the catalyst that brought about the 19,000 square foot state of the art interactive learning center which currently includes 4 ICU setups for life-like manikins; two 10 bed open lab spaces for practicing nursing, basic life support and ultrasound skills; twelve patient exam rooms for physical diagnosis and communication; a room for OB and Pediatric practice; a large Surgical skills unit; and more.

Following his retirement in 2016, David was able to spend time on the farm he shared with his husband of 25 years, Joseph B. Smith, travel extensively, and most notably, enjoy his beloved Dobermans, Roxie and Gillis.

He will be remembered and missed by many.