Atrium Health Navicent registered nurse Meryl Montgomery was honored today as a recipient of the prestigious Georgia Hospital Hero Award presented by the Georgia Hospital Association (GHA). Montgomery, who was one of only five health care workers statewide to receive the award, was recognized for her longtime dedication to the hospital and her devotion to being an advocate for her patients.

In her role as director of Atrium Health Navicent’s American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program, Montgomery is responsible for nursing quality initiatives and improving hospital procedures through the involvement of bedside nurses.

“In her 47-year career as a nurse, Meryl has made a difference in the lives of countless patients and hospital teammates, and is very deserving of this award,” said Atrium Health Navicent Chief Nurse Executive Tracey Blalock. “Meryl is the type of nursing leader who is often encouraging nurses to think outside the box to devise solutions and her dedication to nursing shows in everything that she does. Congratulations to Meryl and thanks to the Georgia Hospital Association for this recognition.”

Montgomery is the leader of the ANCC Magnet Champions for the central Georgia area and has guided Atrium Health Navicent through four ANCC Magnet Recognition Program designations. She also has been responsible for many other initiatives and spearheaded key projects impacting patient safety.

“Atrium Health Navicent and the Macon community are fortunate to have Meryl’s expertise, dedication, and utmost commitment to improving patient care,” said GHA President and CEO Earl Rogers. “She is well-respected in the health care community, and we are pleased to honor her with this award.”