The staff spotlight series celebrates and elevates all the people who make the UI College of Education such a special place to work. This spotlight recognizes the critical contributions our staff members make to the College of Education community in support of our faculty and students.

Joshua Jacobs has worked as an Administrator for Technology and Project Management in the Belin-Blank Center for 19 years. The mission of the center revolves around creating opportunities for talent development.

Before this position, Joshua worked within Technical Support for APAC Customer Services for over four years. He then took the role as a Network Administrator for Ralcorp Holdings prior to landing his current role at the University of Iowa in August 2006.

Joshua received his Associate of Applied Sciences in Programming and Biology from Kirkwood Community College in 2000. He also obtains a professional certificate in Responsive Web Design for Higher Ed.

What does your job with the Belin-Blank Center entail?
As are many of the staff at the Belin-Blank Center, I'm involved in a wide variety of activities. I help design and maintain the web platforms that support our programming and communicate with our clients. I lead our Outreach strategic priority including as part of the team that manages the Recognition Award for Talent Development and the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, and I support our strategic planning and organization efforts.

What is your favorite part about working at the College of Education? 
I feel very lucky to work with many wonderful people at both the Belin-Blank Center and the College of Education.

What is your favorite memory as a Hawkeye?

I was nine years old when we moved from London to Iowa. A neighbor had given my dad two tickets to an Iowa football game as a welcome gift. It was our first time experiencing a major sporting event in the U.S.  And it just happened to be the storied Iowa Michigan game when they played as the #1 and #2 teams in the country. We didn't understand football at that time, but it didn't really matter. It was clear from the crowd what was happening. When the Hawkeyes kicked a field goal to win in the final seconds, hoards of fans stormed the field. I looked at my dad and asked "are we supposed to go down there, too?". We didn't, but it remains one of my most vivid memories as a Hawkeye.

What are your hobbies, interests, or special talents? What would colleagues be surprised to know about you?
I love sharks! As a kid, I found a book on my grandfather's shelf with stories from shark attack survivors. I've loved reading and learning about sharks ever since.

Where is your favorite place to eat in downtown Iowa City?
The Lodger Special at the Dandy Lion is a must-try, stick-to-your-ribs, brunch option.

What is something on campus that you look forward to participating in or doing?
I've never been to an Iowa Wrestling dual and would love to go.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? (No limitations)
I would sail and dive my way around the uninhabited islands of the South Pacific. I should probably learn to sail first though.

Visit the Celebrating College of Education staff page to nominate a colleague. Self nominations are also welcome.