Jacob still inspires
School dedicates room to popular student
AN inspirational Geelong student has been memorialised after his unexpected death.
Geelong Christian College yesterday dedicated the senior school library’s seminar room to former student Jacob Marsden, who died unexpectedly weeks before his final Year 12 exams last year.
Jacob, who studied at the college from prep to Year 12, died after a friend’s birthday party in September.
He had battled the debilitating disease muscular dystrophy.
School principal Glen McKeeman dedicated the room to the student in a small event yesterday, in front of friends and family of the popular student.
“After Jacob passed away, I kept looking for Jacob as I walked past the conference room and it occurred to me that it would be a lovely way to remember someone that we all loved,” Mr McKeeman said.
“Jacob Marsden was an inspiration to many and his brave fight and loving nature will forever be remembered through the dedication of this space in his honour.
“It is hoped that students using this conference room in the future will be motivated and inspired by a young man who used this space to achieve success and overcome great challenges while completing his studies.”
Jacob’s father, Gary Marsden, said his son had achieved “many milestones” at the school, and had helped break down barriers for inclusion.
“As Jacob’s father I am extremely proud of the achievements of this exceptional young man and want everyone to know what I have always known, how very special he was,” Mr Marsden said.
Jacob’s dedication to his studies resulted in his brother, Joshua, accepting a graduation scroll on his behalf during a ceremony in November last year.
The school’s students last year banded together to achieve the school’s best results on record, following Jacob’s passing.