Pasadena Community Leaders Recognized as Civil Rights Pioneers by the California State Legislature

Doctors Jacqueline and David Jacobs receive recognition for their contributions to the advancement of equal rights for all individuals. – Courtesy photo / California State Assembly Democratic Caucus

Dr. Jacqueline and Dr. David Jacobs were recognized by Assemblymember Chris Holden and the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) in Sacramento as the 41st Assembly District’s “2019 Unsung Heroes” for their contributions to the advancement of equal rights for all individuals.

“[Doctors] Jacqueline and David Jacobs’ contributions to our community will have a powerful impact for years to come.” said Assemblymember Chris Holden. “Through their dedication and hard work, they carry on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy and are an inspiration for future generations.”

Doctors Jacqueline and David Jacobs are long-time residents of Altadena, Calif. They are both retired educators and serve in volunteer leadership roles at Scott United Methodist Church, the Aspires west Pasadena Program (an after school program offering tutoring and life skills training) and the Pasadena Martin Luther King Community Coalition, which focuses on the legacy of Dr. King.

Doctors Jacqueline and David Jacobs began their careers teaching in the public schools of Mobile, Ala. Their professional and service involvement spans many years and a variety of areas.

Jacqueline is the former Dean of Life Sciences at Pasadena City College (PCC), after which she was promoted to vice president. She has also served as Associate Vice President of Academic Services at the California State University of Northridge, and a bio scientist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of NASA. In addition to her professional academic and scientific work, she has worked with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the NAACP, and the Pasadena Unified School district for two board terms, including two years as president.

David has been an adjunct professor at several colleges including Pasadena City College and Pacific Oaks College; Executive Director of State Childcare Programs; and founded the Federation of Community Controlled Day Care Centers of Ala. (FOCAL). He was also an organizer for the American Friends Service Committee on School Desegregation, and president of the Pasadena/Altadena chapter of the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI).