About Us

Building Pathways to Scientific Excellence

The Aaron B. Jacobs and Eunice I. Jacobs Memorial Fund was created to empower community college students in California who excel in chemistry-related fields. We support these future scientists by providing guidance, opportunity, and two years of scholarship funding as they take their next step toward a four-year degree.

I imagine a future where practicing chemistry does not require being a chemist, where discovery is accessible to all… A future where chemistry becomes not only a science of progress but a science of hope.

— Omar M. Yaghi, 2025 Nobel Prize Laureate for Chemistry 2025

Our Founders

Aaron B. Jacobs, also known as Al Jacobs, was a seasoned real estate investor and lender with over 50 years of experience in the industry. He and his wife Eunice I. Jacobs, also known as Rene Jacobs, were the founders of the Science Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing scholarships and financial support to local community college students pursuing careers in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, and medicine.

Throughout his career, Al built a reputation for his strategic approach to real estate investment, specializing in both residential and commercial properties. As a private lender, he facilitated numerous real estate transactions, helping clients achieve their goals through structured financing solutions.

In addition to his work in real estate and lending, Al was the author of “Roadway To Prosperity: A Practical Guide To Wealth Accumulation” that focused on real estate investment strategies, financial literacy, and wealth-building. His writing has inspired both seasoned investors and newcomers to the field, offering practical advice and actionable insights.

As the founders of the Science Scholarship Foundation, Al and Rene were passionate about supporting the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. Their philanthropic work focuses on creating access to education for students from diverse backgrounds who show potential in the chemistry fields, reflecting their business philosophy that blends financial acumen with a commitment to giving back, making a lasting impact on both the industry and the community.

Ina Tjandrasuwita

M. C. Inawati ("Ina") Tjandrasuwita is a retired attorney and nonprofit leader with more than two decades of experience advocating for children and families in the juvenile dependency system. She currently serves as President and Trustee of the Aaron B. Jacobs and Eunice I. Jacobs Memorial Fund, where she oversees philanthropic initiatives supporting education, science, and community-focused programs.

Ina earned her B.A. in Political Science from Barnard College of Columbia University in 1987, followed by a Juris Doctor from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1990.

From 1996 to 2016, Ina practiced as a Juvenile Dependency Attorney, representing parents in complex legal proceedings and working to ensure family stability and due process. She later served as a Contract Attorney with the Children’s Law Center of Los Angeles from 2016 to 2022, representing children in the dependency system with a focus on safety, permanency, and child-centered advocacy.

In 2021, Ina was appointed Administrator of the Science Scholarship Foundation, leading efforts to support promising students pursuing scientific education. Following the passing of Aaron B. Jacobs, the Founder of Science Scholarship Foundation in 2022, Ina worked on the efforts to transition the Science Scholarship Foundation to Aaron B. Jacobs and Eunice I. Jacobs Memorial Fund. Ina completed her term in 2024 leaving a legacy of strengthened scholarship programs and community engagement.

Now retired from law, Maria is shifting her focus to the private sector as a real estate investor, pursuing opportunities that align with her commitment to long-term growth, community development, and responsible investment practices.

Sean O'Neill

Sean O’Neill is a self-employed patent attorney and former engineer with The Boeing Company. He currently serves as a Trustee of the Aaron B. Jacobs and Eunice I. Jacobs Memorial Fund, where he is involved in the recruitment of community colleges in implementing the scholarship program.

Sean earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Southern Illinois University in 1982, and a Juris Doctor from Chapman University School of Law in 2000. He has been registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office since 2000.

Indri Tjandrasuwita

Indri Tjandrasuwita is a retired Senior Product and Project Manager from Verizon and Frontier Communications managing their broadband, TV, and voice products. She currently serves as Vice president and Trustee of the Aaron B. Jacobs and Eunice I. Jacobs Memorial Fund, where she oversees the operations and administrations of the foundation.

Indri earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from University of Rochester in 1982, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from George Washington University in 1984, a Master of Science in Information Systems and Technology from George Washington University in 1987, and a Master Certification in Agile Project Management from George Washington University. She is also a PMP and CSM certified.

Our Impact at a Glance

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Mission Statement

To empower high-achieving community college students in chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical engineering by providing financial support, recognition, and pathways to continue their education at four-year institutions.

Our Philosophy

We believe that talent can come from any background, and every motivated student deserves the chance to advance their education. By investing in driven science students, we help shape a future where innovation is fueled by diversity, passion, and opportunity. Our philosophy is simple: support the students who are ready to change the world—one discovery at a time.

Our Core Values

Academic Excellence

We champion students who demonstrate strong performance and commitment toward scientific studies.

Opportunity & Access

We reduce financial barriers so students can continue pursuing STEM degrees with confidence.

Community Impact

We collaborate with community colleges across California to uplift talented students and strengthen the future of scientific discovery.

Legacy of Service

We honor the Jacobs family legacy by supporting education and fostering future leaders in the chemical sciences.