Timothy Jacob, M.A.T., FRGS, is Director of Traveler & Explorer Programs at Reach the World, a U.S.-based nonprofit that has pioneered virtual exchange education since 1998, connecting young people worldwide with real-time expeditions and fieldwork.
In this role, he has developed, designed, and coordinated long-form virtual exchange programs featuring the work of more than 50 expeditions worldwide. These programs bring firsthand exploration into classrooms, translating complex scientific research, the explorer's mindset, and STEM career pathways into accessible, engaging learning experiences for young people.
Tim served as onboard Education and Outreach Coordinator for the 2022 Endurance22 Expedition, which successfully located and surveyed the wreck of Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship Endurance in the Weddell Sea off Antarctica. The year-long virtual exchange program he coordinated reached 33,000 students aged 5-18, allowing them to follow the search for Endurance as it unfolded, learn about the unique Weddell Sea environment, and meet a wide variety of expedition team members.
The Endurance22 Expedition received the Geographic Award from the Royal Geographical Society for "significant impact in inspiring and raising the understanding of geographical expedition and discovery" in 2023, as well as the Explorers Club's Citation of Merit in 2024.
Tim is a licensed K-6 educator. He lives in Chicago with his family, where he also serves as Secretary for the Chicago/Great Lakes Chapter of the Explorers Club.
