Yasith Weerasuriya

President & CEO, Education

Yasith Weerasuriya, based in Irvine, CA, has profoundly impacted education and healthcare through his pioneering work in integrating technology into academic settings. With over 30 years of experience, he has been instrumental in leading Stanbridge University to become a recognized leader in healthcare education. As a dedicated member of the Board of Directors for the Celiac Disease Foundation, he also contributes to improving public health through research and awareness initiatives.

Transforming Education with Technology

Yasith’s journey in education began at Wichita University, where he gained valuable insights into applied learning. Here, he developed a keen interest in how technology could transform education, particularly in healthcare. During the early days of the internet, he understood the potential for technology to revolutionize traditional classroom learning. He played a crucial role in forging partnerships with Silicon Valley tech companies to bring digital technologies into education, which would shape the future of learning at Stanbridge University.

As co-founder of Executive 2000 Inc., which later became Stanbridge University, Yasith set the foundation for what would become a leading institution in healthcare education. He helped develop innovative curricula focused on information technology, security, and optical fiber training, ensuring students had access to the most cutting-edge tools available.

Expanding Healthcare Education at Stanbridge University

Under Yasith’s leadership, Stanbridge University significantly shifted toward healthcare education. He led the institution through the rigorous accreditation process, positioning it as a reputable provider of programs in nursing and allied health fields. His efforts broadened the curriculum and introduced advanced educational tools that set Stanbridge apart from other institutions.

One of his notable accomplishments was the introduction of the SynDaver synthetic cadaver lab, the first of its kind on the West Coast. This innovation gave students a realistic and ethical alternative to traditional cadaver-based learning. Yasith also established the zSpace Virtual Reality Lab, enabling students to immerse themselves in 3D simulations that mimic real-world medical scenarios. These technologies have greatly enhanced the learning experience, giving students the skills and knowledge they need to excel in modern healthcare environments.

Pioneering Technology in Healthcare Training

Yasith’s dedication to integrating technology into healthcare education continued to evolve as he introduced the Robotics and Intelligent Sciences Lab at Stanbridge University. This lab featured groundbreaking rehabilitation technologies, including the Gloreha Sinfonia hand rehabilitation device and the MediTouch ArmTutor, both of which were introduced to California under his leadership.

The lab also includes social robots such as QTrobot, Moxie, and Milo, designed to assist students in learning AI-based therapies, particularly for children on the autism spectrum. These robots allow students to practice real-world therapeutic techniques in a controlled, interactive setting. Yasith’s vision includes expanding the use of social robots for various therapeutic applications, from childhood development to cognitive decline in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease.

Commitment to Civic Engagement and Community Leadership

Yasith has always believed in the importance of civic engagement. In addition to his work in education and healthcare, he has held leadership positions in several community-focused organizations. He is currently on the Board of Directors for the Celiac Disease Foundation, where he contributes to efforts to improve the lives of individuals with celiac disease. He has also served on the Board of Directors for Discovery Cube Orange County and as a Trustee for the World Affairs Council of Orange County.

At Stanbridge University, Yasith initiated the outREACH Program, encouraging students to engage in community service and leadership activities. He is also behind the Root for Change initiative, which seeks to plant 10,000 trees across Southern California by 2025 to support wildfire recovery efforts. His commitment to service and leadership is a core part of his philosophy, and he continues to promote civic responsibility both within and outside the educational sector.

Yasith Weerasuriya’s leadership has transformed the landscape of healthcare education. He has provided students with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing field through his innovative approach to integrating technology into the curriculum. His work at Stanbridge University, particularly in developing cutting-edge labs and incorporating virtual and robotic technologies, has set new standards for healthcare training. His dedication to community service, through initiatives like the Root for Change program, further demonstrates his commitment to positively impacting society. His ongoing contributions to education and healthcare inspire future generations of leaders.