About OneJax
About Us
Originally formed as a local chapter of the National Conference of Christians and Jews (NCCJ) in 1970, and later known as the National Conference for Community and Justice, the organization addressed the ever-changing needs and challenges that come with promoting interfaith respect, acceptance and inclusion.
In 2005, the Jacksonville chapter disaffiliated from the national group and formed our local organization, OneJax, Inc.
The reputation of OneJax and its work continued to grow and evolve through the years and the areas of focus expanded beyond the limits of faith to include ethnicity, race, culture, ability/disability and sexual orientation and identity.
In February 2012, and for the following 11 years—until July 1, 2023, OneJax was formally affiliated with the University of North Florida as an Institute of the University. This partnership was strong and mutually beneficial but ultimately, the needs of the community and university shifted, and OneJax left campus to reincorporate as an independent 501c3 once again..
Today, OneJax is dedicated to continuing its long history of working to build community through respect, understanding, and connections across Northeast Florida.
Our Mission
To foster mutual respect and build bridges of understanding among people of all beliefs, faiths, and backgrounds — in a spirit of shared humanity.
Our Vision
OneJax envisions a united Jacksonville where every person is heard, respected, and feels connected. Together, through open dialogue and interfaith cooperation, we seek solutions to our community’s challenges. OneJax is a trusted leader in promoting civility and inspiring hope, to create a climate where all youth and adults can thrive.
Our Core Values
Our core values are rooted in the following beliefs.
These values guide our programs, our partnerships,
and the way we show up for Jacksonville.
Meet The OneJax Team
Leadership and Staff
Board of Directors
Executive Committee Members
Shari Shuman, Chair
Jerry Mallot, Past Chair
Valerie Odom, Treasurer
Hazzan Jesse Holzer, Secretary/Interfaith Chair
Dr. John Allen Newman, Communications Chair
Wanda Willis, Board Development Chair
OneJax, Inc. Board Members
Dr. Audrieanna Burgin
Allana Forte
Dr. Susan Schantz
Dr. Richmond Wynn
Interfaith Committee Members
Hazzan Jesse Holzer (Chair) - Jacksonville Jewish Center
Father Nick Louh - St John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church
Rev. Dean Kate Moorehead - St John's Cathedral (Episcopal)
Rev. Eric Wester - Retired VA Chaplain
Imam Malik Bilal - Islamic Center of Northeast Florda
Rev. Sarah Locke - Jacksonville Campus Ministry
Shari Shuman - OneJax Board Chair
Rev. Beverly Dempsey - OneJax CEO
Bob Harmon - Unitarian Universal Church of Jacksonville
Rev. Rebekah Hutto - OneJax Director of Interfaith & Cultural Programs
Sel Buyuksarac - Istanbul Center
Susan Ticker - Jacksonville Jewish Center
Sukhbir Singh - Sikh Society of Northeast Florida
Rev. Reginald Gundy - Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church
Leah Palestrant - Hillel International
Deacon David Yazdiya - Diocese of St. Augustine (Catholic)
Rev. Missy Hart - Mandarin United Methodist Church
Karma Behr - Karma Thegsum Chöling Jacksonville
Sabiha Onbasi - Istanbul Cultural Center
Advisory Council
The OneJax Advisory Council is a group of highly respected local leaders dedicated to building community for a thriving Jacksonville. The Council meets periodically throughout the year to provide feedback on OneJax activities, along with suggesting new/alternative ways to accomplish strategic goals and objectives.
Bill Bond
Nancy Broner
Dr. Sol Brotman
Pam Chally, Ph.D.
John Delaney
Frank Denton
Ronnie Ferguson
Pat Geraghty
Marty Goetz
Wilfredo Gonzalez
Steve Halverson
Connie Hodges
Michael J. Korn
Dr. Sherry Magill
Jerry Mallot
Marc Mayo
Rev. Patricia McElroy
Isaiah Oliver
Pam Paul
John Peyton
Darnell Smith
Clay B. “Chip” Tousey, Jr.
Whether you're here to learn, give, connect, or attend — you are welcome.
Together, we can build a community where every person feels respected, understood, and connected.
Copyright © 2025 OneJax, Inc. 501(c)(3). All rights reserved.