UNF alum empowers the next generation of nurses

As the world grappled with uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, University of North Florida alum Edward Jones (‘94, ‘99) and his wife Sara Lynn Jones (‘95, ‘99) took action to help others. As the president and CEO of the Houston Methodist Research Institute, Edward Jones knew the importance of frontline healthcare providers, leading the Jones’ to establish the Edward and Sara Lynn Jones Endowed Scholarship for Nursing at UNF.  

“We just thought it was really important to give back in a difficult time, and more importantly, to help people going into healthcare,” Edward said. 

As double Ospreys, the couple’s decision to support students in UNF’s Brooks College of Health was a natural one. 

“I would encourage anyone interested in healthcare to strongly consider a career in nursing,” said Edward. “It’s a meaningful way to serve others and your community.” 

The scholarship is open to all nursing students, with preference given to those with military or law enforcement affiliations, honoring Edward’s father, a Navy veteran, and Sara Lynn’s father, a former police officer. 

The Power of Scholarships 

When Simone Covington enrolled at UNF to pursue nursing, she brought passion, but like many students, faced financial uncertainty. That changed when she became the first recipient of the Edward and Sara Lynn Jones Endowed Scholarship. 

“Receiving the scholarship was incredibly empowering,” Covington said. “It gave me the encouragement to believe in myself, even when I doubted my ability to succeed in such a rigorous program.” 

That encouragement went far beyond tuition. Covington also participated in an externship at Houston Methodist Hospital, an opportunity that expanded her horizons and ultimately led to her current role as a Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit nurse at the very same hospital after she earned her Bachelor of Nursing from UNF in 2023. 

“Moving to Houston from Jacksonville by myself was a big step,” she said. “But the opportunity allowed me to see the cutting edge of healthcare and grow in ways I never expected.” 

Beyond the financial relief, the scholarship offered something even more profound: confidence. 

“It’s motivating to know someone is in your corner,” Covington said. “Even now, on tough days, I remind myself that this path was made possible by people who believed in me. They wouldn’t have invested in me if I wasn’t capable.” 

Edward echoed the sentiment. “To provide a little financial support, offer some advice, open a few doors and watch someone thrive, it’s incredibly rewarding,” he said. “To see Simone come full circle and work at the same hospital where I lead research is kind of cool.” 

Full Circle Impact 

Today, Covington encourages nursing students completing clinicals in her unit to explore opportunities beyond the classroom. 

“I tell them to look outside of their immediate surroundings, explore externships, travel and see what’s out there,” she said. “UNF gave me that vision. I want them to have it, too.” 

For the Jones family, giving back is more than just funding scholarships, it’s about building community. 

“Everyone can find a way to give back,” Edward said. “Whether it’s time, mentorship or helping someone out, we all have something to offer.” 

In 2022, Edward received UNF’s Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest honor given to a graduate of the University.