Laurie Jacobs, DTM, has dedicated more than three decades to public service, primarily with the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service in San Clemente, California. As an adjudications officer, she administered immigration laws, conducted interviews, and made critical decisions regarding permanent residency and citizenship applications. She took pride in balancing rule enforcement with compassion, recognizing that each individual she encountered had a unique story and aspirations.
Ms. Jacob also served as a regional officer, overseeing multiple offices and ensuring policies were implemented effectively and consistently. Her administrative skills were evident in her contributions to policy development, where she helped shape guidelines that reflected her values of fairness and understanding. She began her career as an immigration inspector at an airport, gaining firsthand experience with the complexities of immigration processes.
Beyond her government service, Ms. Jacobs explored diverse interests that enriched her life and career. From 1995 to 2010, she worked as a professional clown, bringing joy to people of all ages. Her passion for education led her to earn a master’s degree in special education from California State University, Fullerton in 2009, allowing her to work part-time as a special education teacher. She also holds a certificate in post-secondary reading and learning from the University of California, Irvine, and an English as a second language certification, both of which strengthened her teaching abilities.
A dedicated member of Toastmasters International for over 30 years, Ms. Jacobs credits the organization with developing her public speaking and leadership skills. She has used these abilities to mentor and inspire others, both professionally and in her community. She is also actively involved in the League of Women Voters, Democratic Women of South Orange County, and the American Association of University Women, as well as various book clubs.
Additionally, Ms. Jacobs is deeply committed to civic engagement, volunteering as a clown in her community and receiving several accolades for her contributions, including the Distinguished Toastmaster Award and recognition from AAUW. A talented singer, she participates in choral projects, finding joy in creative expression.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Jacobs is proud of her ability to navigate challenges with resilience and integrity. Whether enforcing immigration policies, shaping administrative guidelines, or mentoring others, she has always remained committed to fairness and service. She attributes much of her success to perseverance and the support of friends and colleagues who encouraged her along the way. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys oil painting, singing, and dancing in her free time. Looking to the future, she plans to deepen her involvement with organizations she values, share the insights she has gained from Toastmasters, and continue exploring new opportunities through travel.
Ms. Jacobs advises women entering the workforce to focus on honing their skills and talents, not letting obstacles, especially those related to gender, deter them. She encourages them to stay dedicated, push forward with confidence, and uplift those around them, believing that success comes from resilience, excellence, and a commitment to continuous growth.