Dr. John W. Jacobson died on May 8, 2004 following a courageous battle with lung cancer. Dr. Jacobson received his PhD in Psychology from the University of Vermont and worked for over 25 years as a research scientist for the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD). During his years with OMRDD, Dr. Jacobson worked with Eleanor Roosevelt Developmental Services (ERDS) located at the O.D. Heck Developmental Center in Schenectady and most recently with the Office of Policy, Planning and Individualized Initiatives, Bureau of Planning and Service Design.

Dr. Jacobson was a long-time supporter of the National Association for Dually Diagnosed (NADD) and served on the Board of Directors and Executive Board. He was well respected for his significant contributions to the research literature, having authored and/or edited numerous scholarly publications in the fields of Developmental Disabilities and Dual Diagnosis. In 2002, he co-authored two books on Contemporary Dual Diagnosis MH/MR Service Models Volume I and II.

Dr. Jacobson will be remembered for his many contributions and his dedication to our service system. In his passing, we have lost a committed contributor, colleague and friend.

Dr. Jacobson is survived by his wife Patricia and his two children, Kathryn of Schenectady, NY and Erik of New York City.