Lila Jacobs, College of Education professor and former chair of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (1993-1997), passed away recently. She had taught at the University since 1990. She received her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and her Ph.D. in Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Jacobs founded the renowned Urban Leadership Program. Her honors include the 2007 Leader of the Century Award from the University of San Francisco, College of Education/Leadership Studies. Jacobs published and presented in her areas of expertise: urban leadership, organizational change, diversity issues, qualitative research and educational reform efforts. She was editor of a volume titled, The Politics of Survival in Academia: Narratives of Inequity, Resilience, and Success. She was also co-author of the book, Cultural Conflict and Adaptation: The Case of Hmong Children in American Society. Jacobs was president of the California Faculty Association’s Sacramento Chapter. She also served on advisory boards of groups such as the Center for African Peace and Conflict Resolution (vice chair), the Freedom Bound Center, and the Sacramento Women’s Network.

There will be a celebration of Jacobs’ life on Thursday, July 9, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Redwood Room of the University Union. In lieu of flowers, individuals are invited to make tax-deductible donations to the Dr. Lila Jacobs Urban Leadership Scholarship Fund. They can be delivered in person to the University’s Development Office in Sacramento Hall, Room 118, or mailed to:

Development Office
Sacramento State
6000 J Street, Sacramento Hall 118
Sacramento, CA 95819-6030
Checks should be made payable to: The University Foundation at Sacramento State. Memo line: Dr. Lila Jacobs fund.