Fall 2006 Outstanding Advisor
Sharon Jacobsen
Chapter Advisor
University of Alabama Birmingham

When I first heard there were open officer positions for our chapter last year, I was a junior whose extracurricular involvement on campus was minimal. I participated in an event here and there, but my focus was schoolwork, schoolwork, and more schoolwork. I didn’t think that I had the energy to devote to campus leadership (let alone enjoy it as much as I do), but Sharon took a chance with me and helped to prove me wrong.

Last year, we set our sights on essentially building this chapter from the ground up – and we hit plenty of snags: low participation, figuring out what the chapter was about, learning the ins and outs of the student leadership office, deaths in our families, you name it. All I can say is Sharon was and still is our rock. She is always the first to say “we can do that” and “what do you need me to do.” And when I looked to really get the chapter going this year, she was the first to support me – and the first to tell me that I’m human and not to over do it! What else are advisors for?!

Working with her this past year has been an absolute joy. She takes time out of her days (advising undeclared majors, no less) and nights to make sure she is informed and doing everything she can for the chapter. But, what I love most about her is that the first thing out of her mouth whenever we meet is not about the chapter, it’s “How are you? How are classes? What’s new with you?” and the last thing is a big “Great job!” As simple as all that may sound, it makes a world of difference in the hectic, sleep-deprived, almost anonymous life of a student.

Just looking at the chapter’s progress this year, it would be easy to say that Sharon has made an immeasurable impact, but I must say she has made an even larger impact on me and my time here at UAB. She and SAL have given me the platform and support from which I have built my student leadership career at this university. As I was updating my resume for grad school applications this past week, I realized at least half of it is in some way thanks to Sharon’s support and confidence in me. Her enthusiasm has certainly rubbed off on me, and I have no doubt it will continue to show in our chapter this year and for years to come.

Jessica L Bowen
Chapter President
University of Alabama Birmingham Chapter