The Austin Community College District (ACC) swore in one newly elected and two returning trustees while also recognizing the public service of an outgoing board member during the board’s general meeting Monday, December 12, 2022.
The Honorable District 49 State Representative Gina Hinojosa swore in new Trustee Steve Jackobs in a ceremony at the ACC Highland Business Center. Jackobs replaced ACC’s outgoing Trustee, Dr. Nora de Hoyos Comstock, and will represent Place 6 on the Board. Dr. Comstock served on the Board from 2016 to 2022 and did not seek reelection. Jackobs previously served as Executive Director of Capital IDEA from its founding in 1998 until his retirement in 2022. Under Jackobs’ leadership, Capital IDEA has become one of ACC’s most valuable partners, helping more than 2,000 students graduate in nursing, technology, and skilled trades programs during his time at the organization. Jackobs has a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and a master’s degree from the University of Sussex.
“What we’re doing is helping people cross a boundary into a new set of responsibilities in participation in the society at large,” says Jackobs. “I know many people here in the college and I know in your hearts, every one of you, you’re here to make a difference for the students. So I thank you. I thank the faculty. I thank the administration, and I thank the other trustees.”
Trustees Sean Hassan and Dr. Manuel (Manny) Gonzalez were both reelected to Places 4 and 5, respectively. Hassan was sworn in by Honorable Travis County Judge Andy Brown while Dr. Gonzalez was sworn in by Honorable District 136 State Representative John Bucy III.
“Our families are what make all of this possible,” says Hassan. “My wife supports the work I do here at ACC. It is because of extended family support we are able to do what we do. Thank you all.”
“I do not take this oath lightly. It’s something that I’m very proud of (and) something I get excited about,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “I grew up on a community college campus. I’m thankful to be part of the community. As a Trustee, I have an opportunity to work closely in an institution that tries to foster social and economic mobility for those seeking to advance into higher education. This is a dream come true.”
The board also elected its new officers for 2023. Dr. Barbara Mink will serve as chair, Hasan as vice chair, and Dr. Gonzalez as secretary.
ACC Board members serve staggered six-year terms and are elected at large by registered voters who live within the ACC District, including the City of Austin and the Austin, Leander, Manor, Del Valle, Round Rock, Elgin, and Hays school districts.
For more information and to view a video of the proceedings, visit austincc.edu/board.