Background 

Jacob J Nyenhuis grew up on St. Simons Island and graduated with honors in 2006 from Glynn Academy. He died in an automobile accident in the fall of that year while returning to the University of Georgia, where he was a freshman. Jacob inspired his family and friends with his entrepreneurial spirit, passion, dreams and Christian faith. When he began buying and selling real estate at age 15, he used the proceeds to improve his own life and to help others. He dreamed of establishing a real estate company called “J9 Development” and a charitable organization called "The J9 Foundation" (“J” from Jacob and “9” from Nyenhuis – pronounced Nine-hice). After his death, The J9 Foundation was formed in Jacob’s honor to promote his vision of “Compassionate Entrepreneurship.”

The Scholarship 

The J9 Foundation annually awards a four-year college scholarship to a Glynn Academy graduate who articulates a passion for entrepreneurship and compassionate service. The recipient is given $2,000 per academic year for four years, a total of $8,000, based on meeting the initial criteria and ongoing requirements detailed below.

What is a “Compassionate Entrepreneur”? 

Compassionate Entrepreneurs “dream, act and serve.” They dream of starting new ventures, solving real problems and organizing new activities; they take action to make their dreams reality, often by taking risks; they serve others by working to improve their own lives and the lives of others. Compassionate Entrepreneurs are found in business schools and many other places as well. A science major might dream of developing new medicines to offer healing. A fine arts major might envision developing a studio that will, in part, serve underprivileged children. An education major might imagine finding new approaches to reduce illiteracy.   

Initial Criteria

Students applying for the scholarship must complete a brief questionnaire and short essay (see application on website). They must also submit a letter of recommendation from one adult other than a parent or teacher (pastor, employer, mentor, etc.) and a current official high school transcript. Finalists may be asked to participate in a personal interview. Ideas, vision and experience will be considered as much as academic performance.

Ongoing Requirements

To maintain the scholarship for four years, 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.  

Application and Award

• Application Requirements are available here.
• All application documents are due by April 8, 2011.
• The scholarship winner will be notified on April 21, Jacob’s birthday. Funds will be paid directly to the student each year by August 1.