Guest author: Lori Stevenson
When you ask people in Marion about Dean Jacob, you quickly learn how much he is liked and respected—and how much he has done to improve the community. Having spent the last ten years as the President and CEO of Marion Community Foundation, along with two prior careers in law and education, there is no shortage of people who know Dean and have an opinion on his impending retirement.
Jacob Family
Starting with his family, his wife, Sue Jacob, said, “Dean is a loving son, wonderful husband, great father, and an awesome grandpa! He has had three distinct careers – attorney, teacher, and CEO of Marion Community Foundation – all of which he has been very successful. His success comes from being a perfectionist, dedicated, having integrity, and most of all, love for his community.”
Marion Community Leaders
Nikki Workman, current president of the Marion Rotary Club, summed up what many others said.
“Describing Dean and his immense impact on the Marion community is hard to do,” she said. “He is brilliant, forward-thinking, thoughtful, and kind. He is one of the only humans I have ever met who is truly selfless in his efforts. I was on the Marion Community Foundation Board when Dean started. His dedication has grown the Foundation to a new level. Beyond that, he has created awareness of the good in Marion. I’m proud to call Dean a friend and am grateful to learn from him over the last ten years.”
Adding to Workman’s sentiment, Heidi Jones, president of the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce, added, “The first time I met Dean, I knew he was special. He is truly gifted in making connections and pulling the community together. Being a good listener and steward has allowed him to make a lasting impact for generations to come.”
Speaking for the Foundation’s Board of Directors, chairman Dr. Chuck Speelman said, “Dean Jacob is a dedicated, hard-working leader who has always placed his love and concern for Marion at the forefront of his decision-making. We will forever be indebted to Dean for serving our community.”
Marion Community Foundation Success
During Jacob’s decade with the organization, Marion Community Foundation grew from 160 charitable endowment funds to 450+, and its assets increased from $40 to $60 million. In 2023, it celebrated its 25th anniversary as a leading philanthropic organization for the area.
Jacob’s Projects: MarionMade! and the Cardinal Project
His effort and influence extended outside the Foundation; two notable projects include the MarionMade! community pride campaign and The Cardinal Project public art. MarionMade!, initially managed by Marion Community Foundation, was the brainchild of Bryan Haviland, a former Marion resident and retired public relations professional.
“There are many things I’ve appreciated about Dean through the creation, launch, and growth of the MarionMade! community pride effort,” said Haviland. “Dean wears his commitment to the community on his sleeve every day. Marion couldn’t have a better ambassador. His contributions in growing the Foundation while restoring pride in Marion will be remembered for a long time.”
Jacob was chairman of Downtown Marion’s Cardinal Project. After seeing similar public art projects in several other cities, he was confident Marion would support the effort. Today, downtown hosts 17 colorful and unique cardinal statues. This project required collaboration and countless hours to bring from concept to landmarks. The cardinals now bring regular visitors to Marion to seek them out.
“The cardinals are a way to showcase the incredible talent of local artists, highlight Marion’s history and culture, and enhance the city’s streetscape,” said Jacob.
Jacob’s Leadership
Friends and colleagues alike are ready to praise Jacob. Fellow attorney John Bartram said, “I have known Dean Jacob for over 35 years and have worked closely with him in my law office and when I was a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Dean has always been honest, conscientious, reliable, and well-prepared. He leads with a sense of humor, a positive outlook, and passion. The community has benefited significantly from Dean’s leadership.”
Dean’s wife, Sue, said she is excited to have him join her in retirement. Dean’s retirement date is set to happen on June 30, which life-long friend Tom Johnson sums up by jokingly saying, “Can’t hold a job. He’s been run out of three honorable professions and one bowling alley. Luckily, he married well.”
Related MarionMade! articles
Dean’s Career:
Dean Jacob blessed by Marion | MarionMade
The Cardinal Project:
Cardinal Projects Highlight Local Artists, People and Pride | MarionMade
Dean’s family:
Sisters Set Guinness World Record | MarionMade
The Marion Community Foundation:
Marion Community Foundation | MarionMade
MarionMade! is a program of Marion Technical College.
