Grinnell College has hired Jennifer Jacobsen '95 to coordinate wellness programs for students, faculty, and staff. Jacobsen will join the college staff on Aug. 1 to plan and implement classes, workout programs, and seminars that promote healthy lifestyles within the Grinnell College community.

Jacobsen, who earned 12 varsity letters while a Grinnell student, was most recently head men's and women's track and field and cross country coach at Lawrence University, Appleton, Wisc. She earned a master's in sport psychology from the University of Iowa and coached at Methodist College and Franklin and Marshall College, as well as managing a commercial fitness facility.

"As a coach, I understand the pressures and challenges students face that often make it difficult to pursue sound wellness choices and a healthy lifestyle," Jacobsen said. "I look forward to making wellness a vibrant and co-curricular part of the Grinnell experience for all members of the campus community."

Jacobsen will report to Director of Athletics and Recreation Greg Wallace and chair the campus wellness committee comprised of students, faculty, and staff. "Jennifer's enthusiasm for wellness and her vision of creating a healthy lifestyle for our students, faculty, and staff is an exciting addition for the Grinnell College community," Wallace said. "Her experience as a Pioneer athlete and coach at other small colleges made her an ideal choice for this new position."