The Carl and Gloria Zylstra Nursing Education Center was designed to provide Dordt University nursing students with a modern, hands-on learning environment that supports real-world clinical training. The facility includes a large classroom, a skills lab, two simulation labs with control and debrief rooms, and faculty office space—all thoughtfully planned to support both individual instruction and group collaboration.

At the heart of the center are the simulation labs, where students engage with high-fidelity manikins capable of simulating real-life medical scenarios, including childbirth. Behind one-way glass, instructors control the manikins and guide students through clinical exercises, offering an immersive experience that helps bridge the gap between theory and practice. Control and debrief rooms provide essential space for reflection, instruction, and continued learning.

With this new facility, Dordt University has enhanced its ability to prepare students for the demands of the healthcare field by offering a safe and supportive environment where they can practice critical skills. The center plays a key role in elevating the nursing program and reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence and professional readiness.