High school leaders urged to follow their dreams

By JULIE BLUM/Telegram Staff Writer

COLUMBUS - Local students were given a lesson in trusting in themselves and following their dreams.

Dean Jacobs a photographer with the Fremont Tribune, and a world traveler, told the 18 students at a Tomorrow's Leaders Today event to have the courage to fulfill their aspirations.

Jacobs said he did just that when he sold his home in California and took off for a 22-and-a-half-month-long tour around the globe.

“I'm not a guy who's independently wealthy. I'm just a guy not willing to give up a dream,” Jacobs said.

The Nebraska native who currently lives in Fremont, always had a longing to travel. He was employed in sales/marketing at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals for several years before deciding he wanted more. He felt the need to get away from consumerism, the life that tells you more is better.

With the money he had from selling his home, Jacobs backpacked across the world, visiting 28 countries starting in May of 2001, before returning home in April 2003.

After sharing stories and photos of his journey, Jacobs said he wanted the students to realize that being a leader means facing your fears, trusting in your heart and speaking for those who wouldn't otherwise be heard.

Some people are chosen to be leaders in their schools, communities or families, Jacobs said. Whatever the case, it is important to recognize it and welcome that responsibility.

“Embrace that because it will open a world of opportunities,” Jacobs said.

Columbus High School senior Sarah Schroeder and junior Andrew McClure took what Jacobs said to heart. They have both been student council members at CHS and said a true leader has to have certain qualities like a positive attitude, caring and a willingness to take charge.

The students at the event were from all three local high schools including CHS, Scotus Central Catholic and Lakeview. They were chosen for the program because of their leadership skills and their willingness to serve. The program, which started Thursday and concludes today, is sponsored by Central Community College-Columbus and the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce.

Throughout the two-day program, students heard from guest speakers, toured area businesses, were exposed to ways they could get involved in community volunteerism and hopefully came away with an appreciation of Columbus and what the city has to offer, organizers said.