Jax Heil
(he/him)
Jax is a macro social worker by trade passionate about equity and pursuing justice. Jax works as a Research Specialist conducting qualitative research evaluations for non-profit & religious organizations. Jax found faith in high school – this led him to attend Calvin University, a Christian liberal arts college in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After graduating with his Bachelor of Social Work, he continued his education at Michigan State University, pursuing a Master of Social Work.
While at Calvin, Jax found a passion in walking with individuals reconciling their queer identities with their Christian faith. He has worked with the Calvin University Sexuality Series engaging students at the intersection of queer and religious identities, with Athlete Ally in their GRACE group, and engaging in research that investigates the queer experience in the field of social work. Jax points to personal experience, an empowering, justice oriented faith community surrounding him, and his professional field of work as reasons he continues to engage in this important work.
Jax has also been a runner for much of his life, competing in events from the 400 meter dash all the way to the Olympic triathlon. Jax continues to run today, focusing on training for the marathon. In addition to his personal running pursuits, Jax coaches both high school Cross Country and Track & Field with the Grand Rapids Public School district, helping to coach multiple all-state and state champion athletes alongside multiple amazing coaching mentors.
Outside of work and training, Jax enjoys traveling and being outside. While he loves Grand Rapids, he welcomes the chance to be in God’s creation all over the United States, taking every chance he can to travel and be in nature.