UNF MedNexus and Telescope Health Launch Second Year of Social Innovation Think Tank

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (August 5, 2026) — Following the success of its inaugural year, Telescope Health is proud to continue its partnership with the University of North Florida MedNexus and Hicks Honors College for the second cohort of the UNF MedNexus | Telescope Health Social Innovation Think Tank—an initiative that brings together students, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare leaders to develop innovative solutions to some of Northeast Florida’s most pressing health and social challenges. 

The Social Innovation Think Tank pairs interdisciplinary student teams with nonprofit organizations to address real-world challenges through research, collaboration, and strategic problem-solving. Throughout the semester, students engage with community stakeholders to develop practical, research-informed recommendations that strengthen organizations and improve community health. 

For Telescope Health, the partnership represents more than mentorship; it’s an investment in the future of healthcare innovation. 

“Some of the best ideas come from bringing together people with different experiences and perspectives,” said Dr. Matthew Thompson, CEO and Co-Founder of Telescope Health. “This partnership gives students the opportunity to tackle real challenges while providing nonprofit organizations with fresh thinking and innovative solutions. We’re excited to continue supporting a program that creates meaningful impact for everyone involved.” 

The inaugural Think Tank demonstrated the power of collaborative innovation. Student teams partnered with organizations focused on healthcare access, food insecurity, family support services, and mental health, developing solutions designed to create lasting community impact. 

Several of those ideas are already moving beyond the classroom. Volunteers in Medicine Jacksonville is exploring implementation of a student-designed patient qualification portal to streamline its intake process and improve access to care. Other participating organizations including the American Heart Association, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Jacksonville, and Hearts 4 Minds, are continuing conversations around how student-developed concepts can strengthen their programs and better serve the community. 

Throughout the program, students are mentored by Telescope Health leaders, including Dr. Matthew Thompson, Chief Population Health Officer Paul Sapia, and Chief Strategy Officer Trey Blanchard, who provide guidance on healthcare innovation, population health, and strategic problem-solving. 

The initiative reflects Telescope Health’s commitment to advancing healthcare through collaboration, innovation, and community partnerships. By investing in future healthcare leaders and supporting organizations that improve lives across Northeast Florida, Telescope Health is helping build solutions that extend well beyond virtual care. 

Applications are now open for nonprofit organizations interested in participating in the 2026–2027 Social Innovation Think Tank. Selected organizations will partner with student teams to explore organizational challenges and receive customized recommendations designed to advance their mission and community impact. 

Nonprofit organizations interested in participating are encouraged to apply by August 15, 2026. 

For additional information about the UNF MedNexus | Telescope Health Social Innovation Think Tank and nonprofit partnership opportunities, visit the UNF MedNexus website.