Resident of the Month

Michelle “Shelly” Herkert brings to Wildcat Senior Living a lifetime of curiosity, service, and connection. Originally from the New Jersey shore, Shelly earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Georgian Court University in 1977. Shortly after graduation, she married her husband Bill, a rookie police officer, and began a journey that would span education, family, public service, and community leadership.
With limited opportunities for advanced science careers in her area, Shelly pursued graduate coursework in education and became certified to teach science at all levels, kindergarten through 12th grade. At just 22 years old, she began teaching high school chemistry, often to students only a few years younger than herself. She quickly learned that making chemistry relatable was essential, using real-world examples and hands-on demonstrations to help students connect classroom concepts to everyday life. Her ability to engage students transformed chemistry from an intimidating subject into one filled with curiosity and discovery.
After returning to Toms River, New Jersey, Shelly spent 24 years teaching chemistry, including Advanced Placement and first-year college-level courses, all from the same classroom—Room N33—fondly decorated and full of personality. In addition to teaching, she oversaw chemical safety and storage, mentored new and experienced science teachers, supported the National Honor Society, and led academic challenge teams. Shelly was especially passionate about encouraging women in higher-level sciences such as chemistry and physics. One of her proudest professional honors was being selected as a Johns Hopkins University Fellow, recognizing her as one of only 13 outstanding science teachers nationwide.
In 1985, Shelly became a mother to her daughter, Megan Jean. Balancing teaching and parenting, Shelly and Bill raised an only child while traveling across nearly every state, embracing adventures that included boating, skiing, camping, horseback riding, and sports of all kinds. Megan’s synchronized figure skating added another layer of travel and family memories, with competitions held across the country.
After retiring from teaching, Shelly embraced new roles, including caregiving for her parents, volunteering at a local hospital gift shop, and becoming a devoted grandmother. Today, she proudly serves as “Uber Granny” to her three grandchildren—Landon (17), Delaney (14), and Jordan (12)—cheering them on as they participate in golf, football, track and field, and wrestling.
Life eventually brought Shelly south to South Carolina, where Bill served in public safety leadership. Following Bill’s passing in 2021 and a series of complex back surgeries, Shelly arrived at Wildcat in July 2024, determined and resilient as she began a new chapter.
Since then, Shelly has become a beloved part of the Wildcat family. Known as a problem solver, a trusted listener, and often referred to as “the mom of Independent Living,” she brings warmth and compassion to those around her. Her love of decorating has brightened the clubhouse for holidays, and her belief in kindness, connection, and a sincere hello helps make Wildcat feel like home.
Fun fact: Shelly once raised a classroom piranha named “Herk,” who grew from one inch to fourteen inches during her first year of teaching.