MedNexus Innovation Challenge Focuses on Mental Health

Bright minds, bold ideas, and a passion for mental health advocacy took center stage at the 2025 MedNexus Innovation Challenge, held earlier this mnth at the Palm Coast Community Center. This year’s theme, “Becoming a Mental Health Influencer,” invited students to explore how social media can be used for positive change in adolescent mental health, according to a media release.

Guided by mentors, the competing teams showcased their projects to a panel of judges, demonstrating creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for healthcare innovation. This year’s participants included:

Dr. Cummings’ Team – Brosna Seth, Meliyah Lumpkins, Eryka Damas, and Hannah Melton; Prof. Hooper’s Team – Aida Moghanaki, Prem Prakash Patel, Madison St. George, and Antonia Perez; Dr. Luytjes’ Team – Liliana Rosa, Kacie Jones, Persia Hughes; and Dr. Achorn’s Team – Natalie Patel-Holmes, Joy Prime, Makaylla Williams, Alessandra Caballero.

Each team tackled the challenge with empathy and creativity offering social media campaigns and peer-to-peer initiatives aimed at improving mental health literacy, reducing stigma, and promoting wellness among teens, the release states.

Second place was awarded to Team Inner Peace, led by Dr. Cummings, with each member receiving a $750 scholarship. Taking first place was Academic Athletes Unite, mentored by Dr. Achorn, with each team member earning a $1,000 scholarship.

 “We are so grateful to Palm Coast for their vital partnership in fostering innovation and community engagement in healthcare,” said Dr. Julie Merten, Associate Dean of UNF MedNexus, in the release. ‘The success of this evening highlights the incredible potential of our students to drive meaningful change in the industry.”

The competition, hosted in collaboration with the University of North Florida, AdventHealth, the City of Palm Coast and Flagler County Schools, continues to grow each year, reinforcing Palm Coast’s commitment to fostering education and innovation in the medical field, the release states.

 “The level of creativity and problem-solving displayed by these students is truly inspiring,” said Lauren Johnston, acting city manager, in the release. “The MedNexus Innovation Challenge provides a platform for young innovators to explore groundbreaking solutions that could shape the future of healthcare.”