New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Department of Arts Education and the Jacobs family of West Orange announce the institution of the Robin Hodes Jacobs Scholarship, an annual award for students in the Greater Newark area.
The scholarship was founded in tribute to the late Robin Hodes Jacobs and commemorates her life-long love of music and arts in education. Support would be provided on a need basis for recipients participating in NJPAC programs, such as instrumental studies for teens ages 13-18, enhanced training sessions, or summer intensives. To learn more about arts education programs at NJPAC, please go to njpac.org/arts-education.
An accomplished pianist and choral singer, Robin Hodes Jacobs began her career in special education, teaching deaf children at Newark’s Bruce Street School. She worked for many years as a certified public accountant in New York and New Jersey and frequently volunteered her skills as a math tutor.
Her commitment to the community included active membership at Congregation Beth El in South Orange and Temple Beth Shalom in Livingston. Mrs. Jacobs earned an undergraduate degree from Beaver College in Pennsylvania, a master’s degree from New York University and an MBA from Rutgers University. She was also a graduate of Jonathan Dayton High School in Springfield. Mrs. Jacobs, who died last year, is survived by her husband Roger Jacobs, and her children, Rachel and Joshua.
“Robin and I were married for 40 years. She believed in helping others and leading by example,” said Roger Jacobs. “She did not need attention, but was very principled and kind. She would be pleased that children could learn to appreciate music as she did. For me, there was nothing better than coming home and hearing her play show tunes, like Gershwin, on the piano in the living room.”
Those who wish to make a contribution in support of the Robin Hodes Jacobs Scholarship Fund can call (973) 353-7566.
