Dr. and Mrs. Jacobs visited New Bedford once a year to bestow scholarships on students who had committed to pursuing a degree in STEM education. Each year, one GLCPS student, one student from Greater New Bedford Regional Technical Vocational High School and three students from New Bedford High School would receive scholarships of $35,000 each.
Mrs. and Dr. Jacobs have funded GLCPS's technology needs for approximately 20 years. Additionally, the Jacobs donated two million dollars toward the renovation of the GLCPS building that is now named after them: the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center for STEAM Education.
A native of New York, Mrs. Jacobs was also well-loved in her adopted city of San Diego where she donated hundreds of millions of dollars to countless institutions.
“Mrs. Jacobs was an inspiration to people around the world," said GLCPS Executive Director Dr. Steve Furtado. "She always believed in our mission and our commitment to our students and families. Our thoughts are with Dr. Jacobs and family as they mourn this profound loss."
In the coming weeks, GLCPS will be collaborating with other area organizations, including the SouthCoast Community Foundation, to honor and celebrate Mrs. Jacobs life.