03/13/2026
⭐ National Long-Term Care Appreciation Week Spotlight ⭐
As we celebrate National Long-Term Care Appreciation Week, we’re proud to recognize one of the leaders who helps make Autumn Lake Healthcare at Southgate such a special place — our Administrator, Jacob!
Jacob recently celebrated 8 years with Southgate on March 5th, and during that time he has played a huge role in building a team and culture focused on compassion, teamwork, and exceptional care for our residents.
Healthcare has always been part of Jacob’s story. With a strong family background in the field, he was inspired by his father-in-law, who has been a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator since the 1970s. Jacob jokes that while his father-in-law’s license number is in the 200s, his is in the 3,000s — but he’s proud to continue the tradition of serving residents and families in long-term care.
When asked what he enjoys most about working at Southgate, Jacob’s answer was simple: the staff. He credits our incredible team for the heart and dedication they bring every single day. With so many longtime employees who truly care about our residents, Jacob says it’s something that makes Southgate a very special place.
Over the years, there have been countless memorable moments — celebrating staff weddings, welcoming new babies, honoring residents’ 100th birthdays, and watching residents come in needing support and leave stronger and walking on their own. Those moments are what make working in long-term care so meaningful.
For Jacob, providing excellent care means ensuring every resident is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect, while receiving the highest level of clinical care. It’s a standard he believes the Southgate team strives to deliver every day.
And here’s a fun fact about Jacob many people may not know — he can sing! In fact, he’s even performed at a few weddings over the years. 🎤
When asked who he would choose to have dinner with, Jacob gave a thoughtful answer that highlights people who have inspired and influenced him in different ways. His picks included President Donald Trump, someone he finds fascinating for his confidence and relentless drive. He would also choose his father-in-law, whom he describes as an incredible mentor with endless knowledge in both the nursing home industry and life in general. And from the work side of his life, Jacob chose Mark Schwartz, someone he deeply respects for his compassion and ability to connect with people, along with his Director of Nursing, Jaclyn Martz, who he says is an amazing leader whose energy, dedication, and heart for the facility inspire him every day.
If you’ve worked with Jacob or have a favorite memory with him, we’d love to hear it. Share it in the comments below and help us celebrate his dedication to our residents and team!
👏 Join us in congratulating Jacob on 8 wonderful years at Southgate!