The Educational Administration and Foundations Department at Illinois State University has presented its Ben C. Hubbard Leadership Award to Dr. Michael A. Jacoby, the Executive Director of the Illinois Association of School Business Officials. This award recognizes the achievements of an Illinois citizen who has promoted, championed or achieved one or more significant goals benefiting education in Illinois.
Dr. Jacoby obtained his Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Illinois State University in 1985 and his Doctorate from Northern Illinois University in 1993. He became the Executive Director for Illinois ASBO in 2006 after serving for 20 years as Assistant Superintendent – Finance and eventually Superintendent at Geneva Community Unit School District 304. He currently serves on three state commissions: The Streamlining Regional Offices of Education Commission, The Classrooms First Commission and the Charter School Commission. He was a key contributor to both the Burnham Plan for a World Class Education and Burnham 2.0, as well as Illinois' Race to the Top legislation and the education reform initiatives commonly known as SB7.
In addition to policy work, Dr. Jacoby also serves as a Trustee for the Illinois School District Liquid Asset Fund and the Illinois Energy Consortium and outside of his role as Executive Director, he serves as Chairman of the global outreach ministry of New Covenant Bible Church.
Ben C. Hubbard was the dean emeritus of the College of Education at Illinois State University from 1979-1982 and served as a professor of Educational Administration from 1961-1982, receiving recognition as a distinguished university professor. He also served as the research director for the Illinois School Problems Commission from 1964-1981. The award is presented in honor of his dedication and service to education in Illinois.