Steve Jackobs is joining our team as an esteemed Advisor, bringing with him a profound passion for education and opportunity that promises to significantly benefit HC4A. His dedication to empowering low-income adults through education, as evidenced by his long-term leadership at Capital IDEA from 1998 to 2022, aligns perfectly with our organization’s mission. At Capital IDEA, Steve was pivotal in supporting individuals in accessing higher education and securing careers in nursing, tech, and other high-demand fields.
Before his impactful work at Capital IDEA, Steve was deeply involved in community organization across various states including Massachusetts, Florida, and San Antonio, and engaged in special projects throughout Texas for the Texas Industrial Areas Foundation. His journey reflects a lifelong commitment to social change and community development.
Steve’s personal history is a testament to the transformative power of education. Growing up in a family where education was highly valued yet not easily accessible, he witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs associated with pursuing educational aspirations. This background has fueled his drive to ensure others have the opportunities his family struggled to obtain.
His academic achievements include graduating magna cum laude from Harvard University in Social Studies in 1979 and earning a Master’s degree in Social and Political Thought from the University of Sussex in England in 1980. His work has garnered significant recognition, including the Rotary International Graduate Fellow in 1980, Central Texas Social Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007, Robert W. Hughes Philanthropic Leader in 2016, and Dream Come True Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.
Steve and his wife, Betty Weed, have been proud Texans since 1989, with their daughter Faith currently pursuing a PhD at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. In his leisure time, Steve enjoys running, cycling, reading, and model railroading, and is a founding member of the Austin Model Railway Society.
As an Advisor to HC4A, Steve’s extensive experience, particularly in creating educational pathways for underserved communities, positions him as a valuable asset to our board. His strategic vision and deep understanding of community needs are expected to guide HC4A towards even greater impact in the lives of those we serve.