Stephen Jacobs Retires After 30 Years of Transformational Teaching at RIT

Rochester, NY – Professor Stephen Jacobs, a pivotal figure in the development of interactive media education at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), has announced his retirement after three decades of dedicated service. Jacobs, who has significantly influenced the fields of game design and free and open-source software (FOSS), leaves behind a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and international engagement that has shaped countless students and industry professionals.

Jacobs began his career at RIT in 1995, initially serving as an adjunct faculty member before becoming a full-time professor. He played a crucial role in establishing RIT’s master’s degree in game design and development, which is consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation. According to Dr. Michael P. McGinnis, Dean of the College of Computing and Information Sciences at RIT, “Stephen’s contributions to our academic programs have transformed how we engage with the gaming industry and have set a high standard for education in this field.”

Throughout his tenure, Jacobs has fostered partnerships with various organizations and institutions, including The Strong National Museum of Play, where he has served as a Scholar-in-Residence since 2007. His collaborative efforts led to the creation of educational courses and programs that not only highlight the historical significance of games but also promote their role in social good. “Working with The Strong has allowed me to blend education and entertainment in ways that benefit both students and the community,” Jacobs stated.

Under Jacobs' guidance, RIT launched several innovative initiatives, particularly in FOSS. He established the Open@RIT research center, dedicated to promoting open-source projects and educational resources. His commitment to this field has earned him recognition, including the Provost’s Excellence in Faculty Mentoring Award in 2019-2020 and the prestigious PI Millionaire award in 2023 from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation for his work in securing funding for open-source projects.

In addition to his academic achievements, Jacobs has been instrumental in developing international educational experiences for students. Since 2014, he has led travel-enhanced courses that combine classroom learning with hands-on experiences abroad, including collaborations with Japanese institutions like Ritsumeikan University and Kyoto Computer Gakuin. These programs not only expose students to global perspectives but also provide them with invaluable networking opportunities in the international gaming industry. “The gaming industry is inherently global, and I believe it is crucial for our students to gain exposure to diverse cultures and practices,” Jacobs remarked.

As Jacobs reflects on his career, he emphasizes the importance of fostering connections among students and industry professionals. His advocacy for international collaboration has resulted in partnerships that extend beyond academic confines, preparing students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving gaming landscape. “My goal has always been to equip students with the skills and experiences they need to thrive in a global market,” he noted.

Looking forward, Jacobs is optimistic about the future of RIT’s game design programs. “The foundation we have built together will continue to grow, and I am excited to see how future generations of students will innovate and contribute to the field,” he concluded.

In conclusion, Stephen Jacobs' retirement marks the end of an era at RIT, but his influence will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the countless students he has mentored and the programs he has established. His dedication to fostering creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity in the realm of interactive media has set a benchmark for educational excellence and industry engagement that will inspire future educators and students alike.