Exercise Physiologist and Health Educator at Henry Ford Community college Bonnie J. Jobe is one of five semi-finalists for the national American Federation of Teachers “Everyday Hero” award.
Upon introduction, it is instantly clear that helping others is Jobe’s commitment and passion. “I like turning people on to new things.” she said. Her energy is contagious. Of her prestigious nomination, Jobe says “When Washington D.C. called to tell me I was chosen. I was thrilled to be chosen out of so many people.” There are five national districts. She is representing the Higher Education Category for this area in her district.
Jobe makes a diligent effort to be involved with programs that encourage and enable people to achieve more in life. She says this is who she is.
When asked to describe her life mission she responded, “My life mission is to help my students to succeed. Not just in their careers but in their communities. .. [I want] them to go on to be charitable for the well being of others.” It makes her feel good to see that she has impacted others and encouraged them to strive for success. The people Jobe helps and works with in charities she says are her family. HFCC students are like her kids.
Jobe’s community and colleagues praise her for outstanding supportive efforts for HFCC Students and the Metro Area community. The Red Cross described the Amazing Woman Award winner stating that, “Bonnie is passionate about helping others . . . children . . . seniors . . . students. She embodies a beautiful and giving spirit and is the definition of ‘Woman of Spirit’.”
Jobe is known for taking the initiative. She has given beyond the expected every day effort to support students and her community. As a new faculty member at HFCC Jobe began developing programs which would enable and empower people to get more out of themselves. She contributed to developing the Student Emergency Benefit Gift and helped ensure that the fund raiser was a success. After working with the student emergency fund she came up with idea of the Walkathon for the Student Emergency Benefit. She applied her passion and energy to the project raising several thousands to enable students to meet financial obligations permitting them to stay in school. Jobe said, “The funds from these programs give a student a fair chance in staying in school....I tell my students, ‘get your degree.’ You may not need it at first but in the long haul a degree will serve you well.”
Jobe noted that in all of her charitable endeavors there are others who are as committed as she is, working along with her. “I couldn’t do it by myself.” she said. Jobe feels it is important to remember to be a team player.
Jobe has been a committed volunteer and has worked for 33 years as a Red Cross instructor and also participates in Gift of Reading and Shoebox for Children’s Hospital. Much of her volunteer work is in fund raising such as the White Christmas Ball for St. Johns Hospital. Through the different fund raisers, Bonnie has helped raise millions of dollars for students and the community.
The list of her accomplishments is extensive. Students, faculty and community leaders commend her tireless efforts with no expectation for compensation.