About Interfaith Action of Central Texas

Interfaith Action of Central Texas exists to build healthy relationships between the faith communities of Central Texas.

We believe the work of bridging the faith divides of our community is not just a “nice” thing to do – it is essential. Any honest assessment of the threats to our children’s future would take into account the very real possibility of interfaith conflict. But, while the threat is global – our response must also be local.

We believe that the work of “cultivating peace and respect” cannot be left to diplomats and dignitaries – we, the faithful, have to play a leading role.

We invite all good-hearted people to join us in this work. You may be Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Baha’i, Unitarian, Sikh, secular, or simply a spiritual seeker – but your voice, your talents and your commitment will be welcomed by the iACT community.

We believe that a future of peace and respect begins with you – and that together we can all be the “i” in iACT. Our individual actions can and will make a difference. Join us as we cultivate peace and respect through interfaith dialogue, service and celebration!

iACT works with faith communities throughout the Austin area. Our Member Faith Communities can be found here.  





iACT Board of Directors


Michelle Bonilla, President
Shakeel Rashed, President Elect / Treasurer 
Rev. Don Brewington, Immediate Past President
Venerable Jue Ji Shih, Secretary
Sam Greer, Vice President of Planning
Rabbi Gail Swedroe, Vice President of Communications
Tom Stanton, Vice President of Development
Rev. Jennifer Rousseau Cumberbatch
Larry Graham
Paul Hudson
Qusay Hussein
Imam Anwer Imam
Rabbi Kelly Levy
Sheikh Jafar Muhibullah
Prashant Sheth

iACT Staff


Simone Talma Flowers, Executive Director
Lubna Zeidan, Director of Employee Success & Engagement
Chad Pevateaux, iACT for Refugees Program Director
Claire Meade, Hands on Housing Program Director
Kristen McMath, Operations Manager
Lori Mayfield, Financial Literacy Program Coordinator
Andres Garcia, Communitations Coordinator
James Thomas, Development Associate
Javid Entezar, IT Support Coordinator
AJ Tareen, Health & Wellness Program Coordinator
Desire Nizigiyimana, Refugee Program Specialist
Elham Sadat, Volunteer Coordinator
Farida Naqshbandi, Refugee Program Registration Specialist 
Julianne Luhtala, Refugee Youth Program Coordinator
Imane Houdaifa, Refugee Program Support
Azita Jawady, Refugee Health & Wellness Instructor
Sayed Mahdi Husseini, Refugee Program Support
Kumi Otani, Refugee Program Specialist 
Heather Nicoll, Social Worker
Mia Sims, Events Consultant 
Karen Jaeger, Grants Manager / Bookkeeper