How Leadership Jacksonville Embodies the Power of Community Leadership
Leadership Jacksonville
Building Bridges, Strengthening Communities: How Leadership Jacksonville Creates Lasting Impact
Leadership Jacksonville (LJ) has long been a catalyst for fostering trust in institutions, equipping leaders to navigate differences, and strengthening the social fabric of the Jacksonville community. Through transformative experiences, deep connections, and a commitment to lifelong engagement, LJ alumni exemplify the profound impact of community leadership programs. Their stories highlight the ways in which LJ has shaped their understanding, inspired action, and fostered relationships that continue to drive positive change.
A Catalyst for Awareness and Growth
Blake Osner (LJ 2017) discovered Leadership Jacksonville through his work at JEA. For him, the program was an awakening to the broader challenges and opportunities within his community. “Leadership Jacksonville is an opportunity for leaders to really develop an understanding of the community and plug into multiple aspects in which they can make an impact,” he shares. Program days like Justice Day and Poverty Day left a lasting impression, prompting him to approach his work with greater empathy and awareness. Now, as Program Co-Chair for LJ’s Arts and Culture Program Day, Blake continues to give back and foster learning for others.
Thanh Hogan (LJ 2019) was nominated for LJ by Dr. Leon Haley and remains deeply connected to her classmates. “The connections with my classmates go beyond friendship. We have a genuine appreciation and respect for each other,” she explains. Thanh’s commitment to the program extends beyond her own experience—she’s helped sponsor young professionals for Next Generation, ensuring the next wave of leaders benefits from the same transformative experience. “The experience will leave you a better person,” she affirms.
Leading Across Differences and Building Social Capital
For Jeff Winkler (LJ 2015), the experience was about more than personal growth—it was a deep dive into the realities of Jacksonville’s social structures. As the Head of Basic Needs at United Way, he continues to apply what he learned, particularly from Justice Day, which exposed him to systemic challenges and inequities. “To see and feel the systems, or lack thereof in some cases, that shape our society was incredibly impactful,” Jeff reflects. He has since remained engaged as a co-chair for Poverty Day, ensuring future cohorts have the same eye-opening experience.
Sel Buyuksarac (LJ 2019), Director of Public Affairs and Co-Founder of River City Science Academy, found LJ to be a turning point in his leadership journey. “Poverty Day and Justice Day gave me real perspective and insight on how to help,” he says. His LJ classmates, from diverse backgrounds, have become like family, reinforcing the power of cross-sector collaboration. Beyond his professional commitments, Sel and his wife Angie have opened their home to over 1,500 community members for Ramadan, an embodiment of leadership through inclusivity and generosity.
Strengthening Trust in Institutions
Pete Helow (LJ 1995) believed he knew Jacksonville well—until LJ opened his eyes to its complexities. One program day in particular changed his family’s trajectory: Education Day. “Our class day took us to three public schools, ending with a tour of Douglas Anderson. I was blown away,” Pete recalls. As a result, his daughters attended and graduated from DA, an opportunity they might never have considered without LJ. Today, Pete continues to volunteer with the organization, facilitating the Opening Retreat and program days to guide new cohorts on their own journeys of discovery.
Paola Harris (LJ 2003) echoes the sentiment of lifelong engagement. As a Jacksonville transplant, LJ introduced her to the city’s history, government, and pressing issues. “I met wonderful community leaders and made lifelong friendships that are resources to this day,” she shares. Her involvement didn’t stop with her class year—Paola has since served on the Selections Committee and as a Selections Captain, ensuring LJ continues to cultivate strong leaders.
A Commitment to Civic Leadership
For Adam Chaskin (LJ 2021), the program provided a “crash course” in Jacksonville’s history and nonprofit ecosystem, reinforcing the city’s potential and his role in shaping it. “The program really opened my eyes to Jacksonville’s great potential and has provided avenues for me to help towards that goal,” he says. His participation in LJ has strengthened his personal commitment to the city and his professional ability to lead a nonprofit that contributes to its growth.
The Lasting Impact of Leadership Jacksonville
These stories illustrate how Leadership Jacksonville creates a ripple effect, equipping leaders with the awareness, connections, and motivation to drive meaningful change. Whether through fostering trust in institutions, bridging divides, or reinforcing social capital, LJ alumni embody the enduring power of community leadership programs. As these leaders continue to shape Jacksonville’s future, their experiences serve as a testament to the importance of investing in civic leadership for stronger, more connected communities.
Find a Program Near You
Leadership like this is happening in cities and regions across the country—and you can be part of it.
If you’re ready to grow as a leader, build stronger connections, and make a real impact in your community, there’s likely a community leadership program near you. These programs foster understanding, civic engagement, and lasting change.
Explore the map and find a program in your city through the
👉 National Community Leadership Collaborative