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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 10 years as the president and CEO of Marion Community Foundation, along with prior careers in law and education, there is no shortage of people who know Jacob and have an opinion on his retirement.
Starting with his family, his wife, Sue, 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."
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 10 years."
'Gifted in making connections and pulling the community together'
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."
"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," noted foundation Board of Directors Chairman Dr. Chuck Speelman. "We will forever be indebted to Dean for serving our community."
During Jacob's decade with the organization, Marion Community Foundation grew from 160 charitable endowment funds to 450-plus, and its assets increased from $40 million to $60 million. In 2023, it celebrated its 25th anniversary as a leading philanthropic organization for the area.
MarionMade! community pride, Cardinal Project public art
His effort and influence extended outside the foundation; two notable projects are the MarionMade! community pride effort and 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," Haviland said. "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 other cities, he was confident Marion would support the effort. Today, downtown hosts 17 colorful and unique cardinal statues. The project required collaboration and countless hours to bring concepts to landmarks. The cardinals now bring regular visitors to Marion.
"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," Jacob said.
Friends and colleagues alike are ready to praise Jacob.
"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," explained fellow attorney John Bartram. "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 retired June 30.
Lifelong 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."
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