Alhambra High School’s Karen Jacobson and Keiko Rakin were recognized for their leadership and service at the 2025 Women of Impact Awards
By Natalie Tee Gaither
Two standout members of the Alhambra High School community, veteran teacher Karen Jacobson and student leader Keiko Rakin, were among the twelve honorees recognized by Assemblymember Mike Fong at the 2025 Women of Impact Awards ceremony. The annual event, held at the San Marino Community Center this year, honors women who have made meaningful contributions to their communities across a range of sectors, including education, public service, and advocacy.
Karen Jacobson, who has taught at Alhambra High since 2001, was honored in the Education category for her lifelong dedication to supporting immigrant students. Assemblymember Fong chairs the Assembly Higher Education Committee and emphasized that educators hold a special place in his heart. He praised Jacobson’s dedication to immigrant students: “She helps them adapt to American life and culture, and of course, learn the English language.” Jacobson helps run the AHS Dream Center, which is a resource hub for immigrant students.
Fong shared that two of Jacobson’s former students, Gigi Lee and Jayson Hugh, were in attendance. Lee nominated Jacobson, and in her application reflected, “I still remember Ms. Jacobson teaching us about the Mayflower and Thanksgiving, and introducing us to American foods like avocado mixed with lemon juice.” Fong added, “Ms. Jacobson is a fierce advocate for immigrant students, and her service as a teacher has shaped countless students’ lives.”
Alhambra High junior Keiko Rakin was recognized in the Emerging Leader category for her bold, thoughtful leadership in student government and civic engagement. She was AUSD’s 2024-2025 Student Board Member, representing more than 14,000 students and chairing the district’s Student Advisory Council.
Rakin was nominated by both AUSD Superintendent Dr. Denise Jaramillo and her club advisor/teacher Ms. Kristin Keenan, who both praised her ability to inspire change through advocacy and action. “Keiko has been a transformative force in AUSD,” Dr. Jaramillo wrote in her nomination. “She ensures that student voices are not just heard, but integrated into our decision-making process.”
Rakin’s impact extends beyond the district. Last summer, she participated in Fong’s Young Leaders Program, where she designed a civic engagement project addressing child marriage. Her club advisor, Ms. Keenan, called her “a genuine firebrand for the creation of equity and community,” and praised her full-hearted approach to everything she takes on.
Assemblymember Fong echoed these sentiments, noting her leadership on issues such as mental health, inclusivity, and resource accessibility. “She is fearless in addressing complex issues, speaking with poise and conviction,” he said. “Keiko serves as both a role model for her peers and an inspiration for us older people. Congratulations!”
The achievements of both Karen Jacobson and Keiko Rakin reflect the spirit of the Women of Impact Awards, which is intended to uplift those who lead with purpose, compassion, and courage.
