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Fall 2012 Newsletter Extended: Farewell Dr. Jacobs

Live It, Protect It, Explore It!

The Report, a newsletter for Recreation, Parks, & Tourism Administration, alumni, students and friends

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LEAVING A LEGACY, A FAREWELL TO ONE OF THE VERY BEST

By Anthonia Edgren (RPTA '13), Editor, The Report

Dr. Jacobs waves goodbye wearing a moose hatIn a college career, students sometimes find those select professors that inspire them to challenge themselves and reach for their full potential - ones that they regard as mentors and inspirations. The Cal Poly RPTA department is comprised of professors who do just that, but none more so than Professor Jeffrey Jacobs. Dr. Jacobs doesn't just offer career advice or helpful office hours; he inspires his students to follow their dreams, to live their best life, and to wholeheartedly help others.

Most students in the department have had the privilege to have Dr. Jacobs as a professor at least once, usually in RPTA 205 or in RPTA 360. But even those who have not had him have heard what an amazing person and professor he is. From the charismatic way that Dr. Jacobs enters a classroom, to his genuine interest in your well being, class performance, and questions. From his style of teaching that makes one feel comfortable and challenged all at the same time, to the passion he has for life that he demonstrates in everything he does. Dr. Jacobs is a legend and an inspiration.

Lisa Osorio ('13) recalls, "My favorite memory of Dr. Jacobs has to be the last day of our Environmental Education class. We met in the Arboretum and Dr. Jacobs read us "The Places You'll Go" by Dr. Suess. Once he finished, he encouraged us to dream big and always do what we love. In January, I will miss being welcomed to class the most."

Dr. Jacobs poses with Kendi Root and another friendIn his career at Cal Poly, Dr. Jacobs has won numerous awards and was consistently recognized as one of the best professors at Cal Poly. But more than that, Dr. Jacobs will be remembered for challenging students to do the impossible, like raising money to build a new playground in RPTA 205, or to go outside their comfort zone by screaming at the top of their lungs while running through an arboretum, or to sell thousands of T-shirts to help a family in need. Dr. Jacobs is admired by his students for not only his energy and support, but for the type of person he was. RPTA Senior Ryan Van Niekerk reflects, "I will always remember what a great teacher Mr. Jacobs was. I loved his priorities and his love and care for the students he taught each day."

Though Dr. Jacobs will be leaving Cal Poly after fall quarter for Camp Henry in Michigan, his departure sends a message to students: live your passion and follow your dreams. After attending Camp Henry since age 9, working there throughout high school as a counselor, and serving as summer camp director for the last 12 years, Dr. Jacobs has accepted his dream job as Executive Director at Camp Henry. He and his family will return to Michigan and follow their dreams.

Throughout his time here, Dr. Jacobs has impacted thousands of students and has taught each one something new. Whether it be how to create a perfect survey, how to tackle ice-breakers, or how to make a difference in other's lives, each RPTA student has been impacted by the energy and charisma of Dr. Jacobs.

The Cal Poly RPTA department would like to congratulate Dr. Jacobs on his new adventure and best wishes for the future! We will miss you!

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