Marco Resident Plays Vital Role in the Judith and Marvin Herb SIM Center

The Judith and Marvin Herb Family Simulation Center at NCH continues to expand its impact on excellent patient care, community safety, and clinical education across Southwest Florida. This year, the Center proudly welcomed its newest Simulation Education Specialist, Meredith Burt—a long-time Marco Island resident, dedicated NCH registered nurse, and passionate advocate for education and innovation in healthcare.

Meredith has been a long-time resident of Marco Island since 2001 and has spent her 20-year nursing career serving the patients of NCH with compassion, clinical expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her roots in the community run deep. She has raised three children—Maddy Burt, Caelan Burt, and Eamon Burt—on Marco Island, where her family is well-known and deeply involved. The Burt daughters, affectionately referred to in the community as the “swim sisters,” grew up competing in local swimming programs, and later both recruited and swam at the Division 1 Collegiate level, University of Arizona and TCU respectively, while Eamon Burt is a multi-sport athlete who plays basketball, swims, and currently attends eighth grade at Marco Island Charter Middle School.

Now, she is bringing her experience, leadership, and community-centered perspective to the Judith and Marvin Herb Family Simulation Center, where she plays a key role in shaping the next generation of clinical professionals. The SSH accredited Center, recognized as one of the most advanced simulation facilities in the region, offers simulation training scenarios that replicate real-world medical situations using high-fidelity manikins, interactive immersive environments, and evidence-based teaching methods. From new nurse onboarding to specialized Internal Medical Resident clinical training and interdisciplinary team simulations, the Center helps ensure that NCH staff members are prepared to deliver the highest standard of care.

NCH has always prioritized patient safety and continuous improvement. Simulation allows us to train in ways that elevate skills, strengthen teamwork, and ultimately enhance the care we provide to our neighbors across Naples and Marco Island.

The Herb Family Simulation Center serves not only NCH clinicians, but also community partners including local EMS agencies, first responders, and area students exploring healthcare careers. By expanding access to advanced training opportunities, the Center supports the health, resilience, and preparedness of the broader community. The Simulation Center continues to strengthen NCH’s mission of delivering world-class care close to home.

For Marco Island residents, my role represents a meaningful bridge between the community and the healthcare system that serves it. Meredith Burt’s decades of dedication to her patients, profession, and her island community impact the vital connection between NCH and the island residents it supports.

As the Judith and Marvin Herb Family Simulation Center continues to grow, focus remains clear: empowering clinicians, elevating patient outcomes, and shaping a stronger, healthier future for Naples, Marco Island, and all of Collier County.