The Jacksonville Civic Council announced March 6 that David Garfunkel will join the organization as its chief of public affairs beginning in April.
Garfunkel, formerly founding president and CEO of LIFT JAX, will oversee the JCC’s EpicJax initiative, a program designed to accelerate progress across priorities including early learning, walkable and connected neighborhoods, economic mobility, public safety and Downtown revitalization.
“David’s deep understanding of the Jacksonville community, his experience managing high-impact projects and strong working relationships with local officials will be invaluable as the Civic Council continues working to make Jacksonville a destination of choice,” JCC CEO and President Dennis Whittle said in a news release.
At LIFT JAX, Garfunkel established partnerships and helped community leaders shape the economic and social development strategy in the Historic Eastside neighborhood north of the Sports Complex.
“Joining the Civic Council is a natural extension of the work I have had the opportunity to lead at LIFT JAX, as we continue to work together to influence positive change across the wider region. I look forward to working alongside the JCC’s leadership and the more than 90 Civic Council Members who share a passion for driving a sustainable, lasting impact across our community,” Garfunkel said in the release.
Garfunkel received a master’s in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and a bachelor’s in Spanish and international management from Gustavus Adolphus College.
Jaxciviccouncil.com says that with more than 80 members, the council is a resource for decision-makers in government and the nonprofit sector, an advocate for common sense, sustainable public policy; and a thought leader on Jacksonville’s most pressing issues.