Jacob J Nyenhuis grew up on St. Simons Island, Ga., and graduated with honors in 2006 from Glynn Academy high school. He died in the fall of that year in a traffic accident while returning to the University of Georgia, where he was a freshman. Jacob was a young man with a clear vision for his future. He began buying and selling real estate at age 15. He planned to study real estate development in college and build his own development company. God gave him the spirit of an entrepreneur and also a heart of compassion. He cared deeply for his family and friends and planned to support them as his business grew. Trips to Africa and South America softened his heart to the needs of the world’s poor. He planned to use his business activities to generate resources to support them as well.

What is a “Compassionate Entrepreneur”?

Entrepreneurs make things happen. They dream dreams and then make them a reality. Compassionate entrepreneurs make dreams happen not only for their own benefit, but as a means to improve the lives of others. Jacob had big dreams, strategies to make them realities and a heart to serve others. Entrepreneurs like Jacob are not only found in the business school. A science major might dream of developing new medicines to offer healing. An arts major might envision developing a studio that will, in part, serve underprivileged children. An education major might dream of finding new approaches to reduce illiteracy.   

The Award

The J9 Foundation, named in Jacob’s honor (J from Jacob; 9 from Nyenhuis), annually provides a four-year college scholarship to a Glynn Academy graduate who articulates a passion for using his/her entrepreneurial gifts to serve others. The recipient will receive $2,000 per year for four years, based on meeting the initial criteria and ongoing requirements .

Initial Criteria

Students applying for the scholarship must submit a brief application, write a short essay and provide an official high school transcript. The selection committee will consider ideas and vision as much as academic performance. The application asks about entrepreneurial activities, acts of service, college plans and career goals. The essay asks how the student will use entrepreneurial skills to benefit others.  

Ongoing Requirements

To maintain the scholarship, students must provide a brief annual report on progress toward college and career goals. The foundation will remain in contact with its “J9 Scholars” through college and beyond for the purpose of encouraging them and inspiring others.