INDIANAPOLIS – Leading with compassion, grace, and unwavering commitment, Jennifer Jacob is taking the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation to new heights. She is an inspiration to those around her and exceeds every goal set before her.
The Foundation for Fraternal Excellence is proud to honor Jennifer as a 2026 Outstanding Foundation Volunteer. She will be honored at the FFE Awards of Distinction Reception and Dinner in conjunction with Seminar on Sept. 1.
Jennifer has served the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation, a fully volunteer-led organization, since 2024. First, as the Director of Donor Development, then stepping into the role of Chair in 2025 following the unexpected passing of the organization’s previous Chair Becky Dixon McLaren.
“Jennifer’s leadership has been nothing short of extraordinary during a pivotal time for the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation,” said Kristin Henkenius, Theta Phi Alpha National President, and Kathryn Hartmann, Theta Phi Alpha Executive Director. “Jennifer stepped forward with grace, strength, and unwavering commitment. In a moment that could have led to uncertainty and disruption, she provided stability and clear direction, ensuring the continuation of the Foundation’s mission without pause.”
In the lead-up to Theta Phi Alpha’s 2026 Founders’ Day campaign, “Following the Compass to Founders’ Day,” Jennifer and the board restructured the effort into a more intentional, engaging, and strategic campaign focused on storytelling, peer-to-peer outreach, volunteer activation, and challenge-based fundraising. The results were far-reaching and transformational. The campaign raised more than $70,000 from nearly 300 donors, a steep increase from the nearly $10,000 raised the previous year.
Under Jennifer’s leadership, Theta Phi Alpha launched “Guided By Purpose: The Campaign for Theta Phi Alpha’s Future,” a multi-year comprehensive fundraising initiative designed to strengthen the Foundation’s long-term stability. The campaign is in its earliest stages but has already amassed 8% of its goal thanks to the strategic vision and relationship building of Jennifer.
Aside from her many accomplishments as Chair of the Theta Phi Alpha Foundation, Jennifer’s ability to inspire others and empower them to tackle important work has made all the difference.
“She has a remarkable gift for recruiting volunteers and donors who may have been on the sidelines, making them feel that their participation genuinely matters — because to Jenn, it does,” Dr. Mari Ann Callais, Theta Phi Alpha Former National President, said. “The breadth of Jenn’s commitment to Theta Phi Alpha extends well beyond any single campaign. Her investment of time, energy, and personal resources reflects a woman who is not simply volunteering for an organization — she is building one. The programs supported by her fundraising efforts have directly benefited Theta Phi Alpha members through scholarships, leadership development, and resources that strengthen chapters nationwide. Theta Phi Alpha is becoming a stronger, more sustainable organization because of Jennifer Jacob.”
The Foundation for Fraternal Excellence looks forward to celebrating Jennifer Jacob’s impact on Theta Phi Alpha this summer.
