Rev. Dr. Zina Jacque has built two impactful careers—first in higher education, then in ministry—both rooted in service and leadership. For over 20 years, she worked in student affairs at institutions such as Northwestern, the University of Chicago, and the University of California, ultimately serving as Legislative Liaison to California’s 108 community colleges. After answering a call to ministry, she earned an M.Div. (Summa Cum Laude) and Ph.D. in Theology from Boston University and went on to serve churches of all sizes, including Alfred Street Baptist Church.
Dr. Jacque has taught at the University of Chicago Divinity School and Boston University School of Theology and led mission-driven organizations, including the Boston TenPoint Coalition and the Pastoral Counseling Center at Trinity Church Boston. She currently serves as President and Board Chair of National Senior Communities, supporting over 28,000 residents and 17,000 staff. She is also co-founder of Courageous Conversations, a national dialogue series on belonging and inclusion.
A recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award from BU, Citizen of the Year in Barrington, and the Women of Distinction Award, Dr. Jacque is widely regarded as a voice of grace, wisdom, and hope.
Scroll over my photo to read why I’m committed to building an interfaith America.
We are honored to introduce Rev. Dr. Zina Jacque as a new monthly voice in our community. Zina is a pastor, writer, and longtime leader in spaces dedicated to dialogue, dignity, and belonging. She also serves as a member of Interfaith America’s Board.
Once a month, she will offer a Sacred Pause. A brief reflection inviting space for clarity, grounding, and thoughtful engagement with difference.
At a time when our public life often rewards speed over depth, this series invites you to slow down and remember what it means to build a shared civic life with intention.
We look forward to this journey together.
