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Jacob Wadsworth ’08

At 13 years old, Jacob knew he wanted to be a Milton Hershey School student. With an alcoholic father and an incarcerated mother, Jacob was forced to grow up fast. At a young age, he became acutely aware of the unhealthy environment he was in and the need for a fresh start. Although his surroundings were challenging, Jacob always found solace at school. Within its walls, he relished the sense of safety and endless possibilities. So, when he learned about MHS—an opportunity to live in a place he knew he would love—he took every possible step to make sure he would one day call it home.

“I was sold on all the opportunities MHS offered,” Jacob said. “I knew I could re-write my story, become my whole self, and start something new at MHS. Looking back, it truly saved my life.”

Jacob’s MHS story began in 10th grade. Through teachers, fellow students, and houseparents, he developed what would be the greatest gift he ever received: his compassionate voice. It is the vehicle he has used throughout his professional career in psychology to meet others where they are and help hurting strangers turn into healthy advocates for mental health.

During his pre- and post-doctoral internships at Duquesne University, Jacob connected homeless individuals to essential services beyond therapy alone. Understanding that homelessness involves both mental and physical challenges, he partnered with local organizations to provide them with resources like health insurance, housing, and furniture–ensuring these individuals had the support needed to rebuild their lives.

“Leveraging resources and building relationships is how I best help my clients,” Jacob said. “And it is how MHS supports its students as well.”

Jacob always knew he would return to MHS someday. During his senior exit interview upon graduation, Pete Gurt ’85, then vice president of student life and now MHS president, shared an encouragement Jacob never forgot.

The love Jacob had for MHS was evident to Gurt, and he admired the difference it had made in his life. After Jacob gained professional experience, Gurt hoped he would one day return to MHS and give back in gratitude for what he had received.

“At the time, I didn’t understand the magnitude of his words,” Jacob said. “But I never forgot them.”

In 2022, Jacob became a Milton Hershey School psychologist. He is grateful to now be involved in the integrated approach to health care that benefited him. It is an incredible support system for each student, and he is now aware of how it impacts each employee.

The whole child approach at MHS is designed with the student in mind, focusing on their academic, social, emotional, and physical well-being. The teachers, staff, and peers who help our children succeed also care deeply about each other. Everyone always has someone to lean on whenever needed.

“If I have a student who needs a nurse, a psychiatrist, or a nutritionist, everyone is just a phone call away—all tied to the same mission,” Jacob said.

MHS Alumnus and psychologist Jacob Wadsworth '08 working at his desk.

As a Milt, Jacob once walked in his students’ shoes and understands their perspective when he sits across from them. No two stories are ever the same, but there is undoubtedly a shared thread of resiliency. Jacob hopes to always remind his students of their resilience and encourage them to keep moving forward.

“I hope the kids can say Dr. Wadsworth does his best for them every day,” Jacob said. “That’s my goal. If they feel supported, are making progress, and feel good about their success—however they define it—then I know I am doing something right.”

Jacob uses the voice he once found at MHS to help current students find theirs. To do this well, he is passionate about being involved in the MHS community because when he shows up for students outside of the office—genuinely invested in what makes them smile—the impact is immeasurable.

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.