Brenau University announces the naming of the Jacobs College of Business and Media, recognizing the family’s enduring philanthropic support of the institution, their legacy of community service, and their role as pioneers who have shaped the media landscape for 77 years.
“This gift will transform the college to enhance programs and provide support and expand opportunities for faculty and students,” Brenau President David L. Barnett, Ph.D., said. “John W. Jacobs Jr. was a pioneer in broadcasting in Gainesville, a long-time supporter of Brenau and a long-serving chair of our Board of Trustees. Jacobs Media Corporation and the Jacobs family have long partnered with Brenau’s business and communication programs, and this naming is a fitting way to honor their legacy to the university and the community.”
The Jacobs College of Business and Media offers the Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 10 areas of specialization through the School of Business; the school also offers master’s degrees in accounting and organizational leadership in addition to an MBA. The Department of Media offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communication and media arts. Brenau’s radio station, 89.1 WBCX, is also part of the college’s programming and provides students with hands-on experiences. The signal is broadcast via the Jacobs Media tower and is another frequent collaboration area.
“The naming of the Jacobs College of Business and Media is a landmark moment that reflects an historic era of growth at Brenau. Having three of our four colleges named is a milestone that signals a resounding vote of confidence in our mission,” James C. Eck, Ph.D., provost and vice president of academic affairs, said. “This momentum elevates the prestige and opportunities available to our students, ensuring they are prepared to lead and meet the changing needs of our community and the world.”
Shatrela Washington-Hubbard, Ph.D., the Swinton A. Griffith III dean, said the college is appreciative of the Jacobs family’s support, which allows it to build on the current momentum.
“This is an exciting time within the college as faculty, staff and students are enthusiastic about the work that we are accomplishing with applied learning experiences, co-curricular activities and research,” Washington-Hubbard said. “We are appreciative of the Jacobs family for their belief in the transformative learning experiences that faculty and staff within the college are providing for students. This support also strengthens our commitment to excellence as we continue to offer market-driven programming that prepares students to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving workforce.”
As outlined in a new agreement signed by the Jacobs family, funds will be used to support the college, including facility upgrades, programmatic and faculty support, fellowships and scholarships, and other investments in Brenau’s business and media programs. The Jacobs College Scholarship for Business and Media will be created as an endowed scholarship fund for deserving undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the college.
The Jacobs family’s impact at Brenau remains a living legacy. Jay Jacobs, chairman and CEO of Jacobs Media, and his wife, Anna Alexander Jacobs, a 1986 Brenau graduate and member of the Board of Trustees who chairs the University Advancement Committee, continue to support the university’s mission.
“The Jacobs College of Business and Media is a reflection of John W. Jacobs Jr’s vision—his belief that education, entrepreneurship, and communication shape the future,” Anna and Jay Jacobs said. “He understood that business and media would become deeply intertwined. Our entire family, walking in his purpose, is honored to see this come to life at Brenau University.
John W. Jacobs Jr. was born in Gainesville and attended the University of Missouri School of Journalism. After serving during World War II, he was awarded two Silver Star medals during the Battle of the Bulge. He returned home to found radio station WDUN, which laid the foundation for Jacobs Media Corporation. Under the leadership of John Jacobs and his son, Jay Jacobs, the corporation evolved into a multi-platform industry leader; today, it encompasses three radio stations and AccessWDUN.com, a digital news outlet.
At Brenau University, he served as a trustee from 1958 until his death in 2011 and as board chairman for 23 years. During his lifetime, the university awarded Jacobs an Honorary Doctorate Degree and named the Business and Communications Building in his honor. In 2009, John Jacobs wrote his autobiography, “The Longer You Live: Remembrances of John Wesley Jacobs Jr.,” published by Brenau University Press. During his lifetime, Jacobs created a trust whose future proceeds will benefit the newly named college.
