Earns Region One Athletic Administrator of the Year
Paul Jacobson, Athletic Administrator at Negaunee High School has been named Region 1 Athletic Administrator of the
Year by the Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA) for the 2024-25 school year. Jacobson
will be presented the award in Traverse City on March 15, 2025, at the annual MIAAA Mid-Winter Conference in which
over 500 athletic directors participate.
Jacobson, a 1987 graduate of Negaunee High School, earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Central Michigan
University in 1993 and later received his Master’s Degree from Northern Michigan University. Over the years, Jacobson
has worn many hats—beginning his career as a teacher and coach at Mt. Pleasant High School in 1993, before
transitioning to Negaunee High School in 1997. He has also served as Assistant Principal at both Negaunee Middle School
and Negaunee High School for the past 16 years.
Jacobson has been a key figure in education and athletics for over 30 years, dedicating his career to enhancing
student-athletes’ experiences and fostering the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and academic excellence. In his role
as Athletic Director at Negaunee High School since 2008, Jacobson has played an instrumental part in the success of the
school’s athletic programs while also serving the broader educational community. Jacobson is not only the Athletic
Director at Negaunee High School, but he also serves as the Assistant Principal and head varsity football coach. His
extensive responsibilities demonstrate his commitment to both the academic and athletic development of his students.
Additionally, Jacobson is an active member of several professional organizations, including the MIAAA, the MHSFCA
(Michigan High School Football Coaches Association), and the MASSP (Michigan Association of Secondary School
Principals). He was recently inducted into the MHSFCA Hall of Fame in 2024, recognizing his long-standing commitment
to high school football.
In addition to his role at Negaunee, Jacobson has been a mentor to many athletic directors across the Upper Peninsula,
offering guidance and support whenever needed. His willingness to help others has earned him the respect and
appreciation of his peers. Patrick Dwyer, Athletic Director at Calumet High School shared, “Anytime there has been a
question or need, Paul has always been there to offer advice and lend a hand. He is truly an invaluable resource.” Jake
Skewis, Athletic Director at Westwood High School echoed those sentiments as well. “Since stepping into my role as
Athletic Director, no one has been more influential in my growth and success than Paul. He’s been a true mentor to the
newer ADs in both the WestPAC and Mid Peninsula Conferences, always ready to offer guidance and answer my
questions—something I find myself needing often.”
Jacobson is also an active voice at the WestPAC Conference meetings and has served on the U.P. Athletic Committee for
many years. His impact has been significant across all sports in the U.P., and he remains a strong advocate for the growth
and success of athletics in the region. Paul is supported by his wife Pam and their three children: Luke (27), Allyson (24),
and Maddyson (19). He remains deeply invested in his community and continues to be a role model for students,
athletes, and educators alike.
The MIAAA is a 50+ year-old association with nearly 700 members serving as athletic administrators in numerous high
schools and junior high/middle schools in Michigan. As partners with the Michigan High School Athletic Association, the
MIAAA works to promote the educational value of interscholastic athletics and the role and profession of athletic
director. The MIAAA is very proud to spotlight the work of Paul Jacobson, a man whose work and values best mirror
those of the association.
