A Legacy of Service and Learning
A new, state-of-the-art simulation suite honors Liz and Ash Rothlein’s enduring legacy, empowering the next generation of health care leaders through hands-on education and compassionate care.
On June 3, the University of Miami dedicated the Liz and Ash Rothlein Simulation Suite. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to advance health care education and honors the extraordinary legacy of two cherished members of the UM community. Located in the Plumer Building on the UM campus, the suite will provide innovative simulation experiences for students and faculty in the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Department of Physical Therapy.
Liz Rothlein, Ph.D., dedicated 25 years to UM’s School of Education and Human Development, including 13 years as associate dean. Known for her warmth and dedication, Liz believed deeply in the transformative power of learning to shape individuals and uplift communities.
Ash Rothlein, B.S.C.E. ’53, was a decorated World War II veteran who served at Omaha Beach during the Battle of Normandy. For his bravery, he received the National Order of the Legion of Honor, France’s highest military distinction. After the war, Ash returned to the University of Miami to earn his engineering degree and later pursued a successful career in construction, working as a general contractor. His life was defined by service, integrity and a steadfast commitment to education.
The couple’s enduring values live through their estate’s philanthropic support. Their legacy inspired the creation of the ROTC Global Scholars Fund, which sends cadets to Normandy for immersive historical and leadership experiences. Now, the new simulation suite will transform the way students train for real-world, clinical care.
“This suite reflects everything Liz and Ash believed in — education, compassion and service,” said Nicole Zarins-Tenenbaum, trustee of the Ash Rothlein Revocable Trust. “They would be proud to know that their gift is helping shape the future of health care and providing students with the tools to make a real difference.”
The Liz and Ash Rothlein Simulation Suite also supports the Miller School’s NextGenMD curriculum, preparing medical students to care for patients with precision and empathy, especially in areas that require advanced, hands-on training.
“Today, with the dedication of the Liz and Ash Rothlein Simulation Suite, their legacy enters a new chapter, one that will directly shape the future of health care,” said Latha Chandran, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., the Bernard J. Fogel Chair in Medical Education, executive dean for education and policy and founding chair of the Department of Medical Education at the Miller School. “This cutting-edge space will empower our students in the Department of Physical Therapy—ranked among the top programs in the nation—to develop critical skills and clinical expertise in a high-fidelity learning environment.”
Neva Kirk-Sanchez, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, added, “The Rothleins’ generosity has provided our students with an unparalleled learning environment. The simulation suite will play a pivotal role in preparing our graduates to meet the complex needs of patients, particularly in the realm of movement disorders.”
As faculty, students and staff gathered to unveil the commemorative plaque, the moment underscored a lasting truth: the Rothleins’ impact continues to grow, not only through what they gave but through the countless lives they continue to inspire.
Tags: Department of Physical Therapy, Dr. Latha Chandran, Dr. Neva Kirk-Sanchez, philanthropy, simulation-based training