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MedNexus Innovation Academy

Shaping Future Healthcare Innovators

The future of healthcare is evolving faster than we can teach it.
We’re preparing students for careers that don’t yet exist, using tools not yet invented.

Academy Overview

The MedNexus Innovation Academy is a selective program that empowers top-performing UNF students from any major to become innovators and leaders in tomorrow’s healthcare landscape. 

Through a blend of mentorship, real-world projects, and elite enrichment experiences, students will develop skills in entrepreneurship, leadership, creativity, and ethics with a strong foundation in healthcare and technology. The fellowship is anchored in four core values Curiosity, Agility, Collaboration, and Adaptability so students develop the mindsets needed to thrive in uncertainty and shape solutions in fields still emerging.

Guiding Values

  • Curiosity: A commitment to lifelong learning and exploration
  • Agility: Embracing change with flexibility and optimism
  • Collaboration: Working across disciplines to drive innovation
  • Adaptability: Thriving in uncertainty by continuously evolving ideas, skills, and approaches to meet the demands of a dynamic world 

Student Fellows will earn:

Real-World Experience That Sets You Apart

  • A portfolio of applied, real-world work developed through hands-on projects with startups, healthcare organizations, and innovation initiatives

A Distinct Professional Edge

  • Advanced capabilities in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and leading across disciplines in complex, rapidly evolving environments

Recognition & Distinction

  • Eligibility for the MedNexus Healthcare Innovator Scholarship (up to $2,500 per academic year)
  • Innovation Honor Medallion worn at UNF graduation
  • Public recognition at MedNexus events and across UNF platforms, including print and social media

Fellowship Experience and Expectations

The MedNexus Innovation Academy is a selective, performance-based fellowship built around continuous growth, accountability, and real-world learning.

To remain in good standing, Fellows are expected to: 

  • Embrace feedback and demonstrate continuous growth.
  • Participate fully in Academy activities and assessments.
  • Uphold the Academy's core values of Curiosity, Agility, Collaboration, and Adaptability.
  • Maintain a high level of professionalism, engagement, and contribution to the cohort.

Your Journey. Your Future.

 

From your first semester to graduation, you’ll build the mindset, experience, and network to stand apart.

Join Us!

The Student Experience

What You Will Experience

The Academy is built around high-impact, real-world engagement.

  • Innovation Challenges
    Fast-paced, team-based challenges solving real healthcare problems
  • Site Visits & Immersive Experiences
    Behind-the-scenes access to hospitals, startups, and innovation environments
  • Internships & Badges
    Priority access to hands-on opportunities with leading organizations
  • Innovation Showcase
    A culminating experience where you present your work to leaders, partners, and the community

Academy Details and Eligibility

  • Academy is open to students at all levels (undergraduate & graduate) and can remain in the program throughout their academic enrollment.
  • Students must be in good academic standing.
  • Must be available to attend the following events:
Innovation Academy Event Dates
Event Date Time Location

Orientation

 February 3, 2027 10:00am-2:00pm UNF MedNexus
Presentation March 3, 2027 10:00am-2:00pm UNF MedNexus
Immersive Experience April 14, 2027 9:00am-5:00pm UFHealth
Hack-A-Thon May 12, 2027 9:00am-5:00pm UNF MedNexus
Internship or Think Tank Fall 2027 100 hours Various Locations
students collaborating with each other

Join the MedNexus Innovation Academy

We are seeking high-performing, curious students from all majors who are ready to think differently, grow quickly, and lead meaningful change.

Application Process

Admission is selective for students who will thrive in a high-expectation, growth-oriented environment.

  1. Students are nominated to apply for the Innovation Academy
  2. Submit an online application
    Includes a brief innovation mindset assessment
  3. Participate in a selection interview
    Conducted with MedNexus Innovation Academy leadership. Must attend ONE.
    • Tuesday, January 19, 2027 
    • Wednesday, January 20, 2027
  4. Receive your admission decision
    Selected students will be notified via email
  5. Complete required orientation
    Admitted Fellows will participate in a mandatory Innovation Academy Orientation

Application Window

Nominations will be accepted between October 12, 2026 and January 11, 2027.

Nomination Form

Contact

Have questions? Reach out to Sara Brochu at sara.brochu@unf.edu
  • Is the Innovation Academy only for undergraduate students?
    No. The Innovation Academy is open for undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Can I join with any major?
    Yes. All majors are encouraged. You do not need be in healthcare, just interested in keeping your options open after graduation.
  • Do I need to be enrolled full-time to participate?
    No. You do not need to be enrolled as a full-time student (12 credits minimum) to participate in the Academy or be eligible for the scholarship.
  • How many hours per week is the commitment?
    It will vary depending on the week. All events are planned well in advance so you can plan around classes and work.
  • Can I earn credit?
    Some experiences can be tied to academic courses.
  • Who is eligible for the scholarship?
    Students who are selected for the academy and successfully complete all program requirements may be eligible to receive a MedNexus Healthcare Innovator Scholarship award of up to $2,500, subject to full-time enrollment status and remaining financial aid eligibility. Scholarships are subject to availability, funding, and the eligibility criteria specified. Applicants must be Florida residents to receive scholarship funds. Scholarships are non-transferable. If you are already awarded a MedNexus scholarship, you are not eligible for additional funding. MedNexus reserves the right to modify or discontinue scholarships at any time.
  • Can I nominate myself for the Innovation Academy
    Yes! We encourage all nominations.