Judith Jacobs is known for her leadership in professional development, for her efforts to support the next generation of mathematics education leaders, and for her role in establishing two of NCTM's national affiliates.
Jacobs began her career teaching mathematics at McKinley Junior High School in Brooklyn, New York. She has also taught high school mathematics. It was during this stage of her career that she became part of the Madison Project, a professional development program directed by Robert B. Davis.
In addition, Jacobs served NCTM as a member of the Board of Directors and as a member of various committees. She cofounded the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), and helped create the AMTE's annual conference. Jacobs also cofounded Women and Mathematics Education. The organization later gave her the Dora Helen Skypeck Award for promoting opportunities for girls and women in mathematics education.
At the time of this writing, Judith Jacobs is the Director of the Center for Education and Equity in Mathematics, Science, and Technology (CEEMaST) of the College of Science at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. She is responsible for coordination of all programs offered by CEEMaST. In addition, she runs several programs for teachers of mathematics.