Uniting Nature and Health Through Research and Action
Hosted by the University of North Florida's Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE) and presented by the Winston Family Foundation’s Project One Health Jax, this one-day event brings together experts, community leaders, and local partners to explore the powerful connection between nature, human health, and wellbeing. The event will also celebrate the launch of the new UNF Nature and Health Center, which will serve as the Florida Chapter of the Nature and Health Alliance.
Highlights include keynote speakers, expert-led sessions, interactive roundtables, and student presentations. Discover local innovations like Project One Health Jax and leave inspired with actionable ideas for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Nature and Health Symposium
Friday, September 26 | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
University of North Florida, Adam W. Herbert University Center
12000 Alumni Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32224
Funder's Breakfast (Invitation Only)
This invitation-only breakfast prior to the Symposium offers funders and donors a unique opportunity to connect with the presenting sponsors and meet the faculty and staff behind the newly launched Center. Please contact us at environment@unf.edu for more information.
Featured Speakers
Moez Limayem, Ph.D.
Jay Maddock, Ph.D.
Erin Largo-Wight, Ph.D.
Richmond Wynn, Ph.D.
UNF Nature and Health Symposium Topics
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Project One Health Jax
Sylia Obagi, CEO Winston Family Foundation
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Nature is Medicine
UNF Nature and Health developing partnership with UNF MedNexus, Mayo Clinic Florida, Timucuan Parks Advisory, and more.
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Nature's Healing Indoors
Industry-funded research project and initiative led by UNF Nature and Health Center exploring bringing nature indoors where people spend majority of time.
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UNF Youth Environmental Leadership Program, Environmental Leadership Program, and Florida Field School
Ruby Cox, Coordinator Institute of Environmental Research and Education.
Developing the next generation of environmental leaders through a blend of academic enrichment, hands-on experience, and professional mentorship.
Launching the UNF Nature and Health Center 
The symposium also marks the official launch of the UNF Nature and Health Center, housed within the Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE). This new statewide hub is part of national network dedicated to advancing research, education, and community engagement at the intersection of nature and human health.
UNF’s selection as the home of Florida’s first and only chapter of the national Nature and Health Alliance highlights the university’s leadership in this rapidly growing field. The Center builds on a strong foundation of faculty expertise in nature and health, environmental education, and student success initiatives. It also aligns with the fast-growing Environmental Science B.S. programs, which is housed within IERE alongside the Center. The Center is also a proud member of the Campus Nature Rx Network.
Together, these efforts position the UNF Nature and Health Center as a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary research, student engagement, and community partnerships—driving innovation in human well-being and environmental stewardship across Northeast Florida and beyond.
Symposium Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
ADDITIONAL SPONSORS
