Ashley Jonas, MSN, RN

Ashley Jonas, MSN, RN, joined The University of Olivet as an assistant professor of nursing in 2025. In May 2026, she was named interim director of nursing. She brings a strong background in clinical nursing, higher education instruction and community health advocacy. Her academic and professional work is centered on advancing health equity, promoting inclusive care and preparing future nurses to deliver culturally competent, evidence-based care—particularly in the field of mental health nursing.

Professor Jonas holds a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in education from Weber State University. Prior to her full-time appointment at The University of Olivet, she served as an adjunct instructor and teaching assistant at Weber State University School of Nursing and was a clinical nurse for the University of Utah College of Nursing, which focused care on the health and well-being of incarcerated individuals. Her clinical experience also includes home health, hospice care, long-term care and psychiatric care.

Dedicated to advocacy and systemic change, Professor Jonas has led statewide training initiatives on STI screening and human trafficking awareness in the state of Utah. She served on the Utah Trafficking in Persons Task Force and continues to present and educate communities about human trafficking.  She has presented at regional and national conferences on inclusive health practices, equitable care for patients with dark complexions and mental health support for vulnerable populations.

At The University of Olivet, she is actively involved in shaping the new nursing curriculum and is committed to preparing students to lead with compassion, clinical excellence, and cultural sensitivity.