Antioch art teacher Michael Jacobucci, holding the award check for $1,000, will be awarded the first Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts on this year’s Kindness Day, Jan. 26, 2026. Source: Justice for Alexis Gabe
Will be officially awarded to AUSD art teacher Michaela Jacobucci on Kindness Day, Jan. 26
Scholarship program judge panelists included Jessica Zuasola (Alexis’ cousin), and Alexis’ brothers Austin and Marqus Gabe. Photo source: Justice for Alexis Gabe
Congratulations to Michaela Jacobucci. She is currently a third-year art teacher in the Antioch Unified School District, teaching at both Dallas Ranch Middle School and Antioch Middle School.
The three scholarship panelists unanimously agreed to select an art teacher as our first awardee, recognizing her dedication in using her own funds to provide art supplies for her students. On Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, the We Get It Foundation, along with the panelists, surprised her with a $1,000 check in her class. Additionally, we will be honoring her with a big check during Kindness Day as well.
Present at the event were Elizabeth LaVasse (CEO of We Get It Foundation), Leo Miller, Jessica Zuasola (who is Alexis’ cousin), brothers Austin and Marqus Gabe, Bridget Spires (the principal of DRMS), and Liah Jones-Douglas (the principal of AMS
Monday, January 26, 2026, marks the fourth anniversary of Alexis Gabe’s passing, a day that the Gabe Family has dedicated to compassion and community involvement.
We are excited to share that Kindness Day is returning for its 3rd year, following the success of the previous two events! This day offers a chance to step away from our everyday lives and come together in the spirit of kindness to make a positive difference. In memory of our daughter Alexis, whose passing we honor, we have decided to dedicate this day to acts of generosity and compassion. Whether you opt for a small gesture, like treating someone to a coffee, or a larger one, such as providing meals for those in need or donating to a charitable organization, every act of kindness matters. We invite you to share your stories in the comments and let us know how you have impacted someone’s life.
This year and in the future, things will be different. Previously, this event was held virtually, allowing everyone to join in regardless of where they are. However, we are now also offering the chance to donate non-perishable canned goods if you prefer to contribute food instead. We will be donating everything we collect that day to an organization that we all voted for.
The purpose is to honor Alexis’ memory and motivate others to create a positive impact in the world through small, everyday actions. We encourage individuals to engage in acts of kindness, regardless of their scale. Suggested actions include buying a coffee for someone, holding the door for a stranger, providing meals for the homeless, writing a thank-you note, or simply making someone smile. This year, and in the years to come, the event will take on a new format. In the past, it was conducted virtually, allowing participation from anyone, regardless of location. However, we are now also providing the option to donate non-perishable canned goods for those who wish to contribute food instead. All items collected on that day will be donated to a domestic violence organization.
The day will culminate with a visit to Alexis’ memorial bench in Oakley at approximately 5 PM, where representatives from the “We Get It Foundation” and the Gabe Family will present a large check to the recipient of the Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts. A brief presentation will take place, and a DJ will be present to provide entertainment. We are expected to be there from 5 to 7 PM. Alexis’ memorial bench is located at Civic Center Park at 3231 Main Street, Oakley. We warmly invite everyone to join us, bring your food donations, and commemorate Alexis’ anniversary alongside our family and friends.
Gwyn Gabe
(Father of Alexis Gabe)
About the Scholarships
We Get It Foundation is proud to present the Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts, a scholarship dedicated to fostering creativity in the realm of artistic medium and photography. Alexis Gabe was a beloved daughter, friend, and a phenomenal artist whose talent shone brightly in all her endeavors. She had a remarkable ability to connect with others, particularly within the neurodivergent community, whom she passionately supported and uplifted. Those who knew Alexis cherished her spirit and warmth, recognizing her as a true advocate for inclusivity and artistic expression. The Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts aims to honor her legacy by providing opportunities for young artists to express themselves and develop their talents, ensuring that her passion for creativity and connection continues to inspire future generations. Through this scholarship, Alexis’s vision for a more inclusive and expressive world will live on.
The Scholarships
The Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts awards a grant paid directly to the institution of learning for classes in any form of visual art, including painting, drawing, or sculpture. This grant may also be used to purchase art supplies or materials if that is the intention of the applicant and clearly stated when applying.
The Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts awards a grant dedicated to photography lessons or the purchase of photography equipment. Applicants can specify their intended use in their application, and the grant will support their journey in exploring and developing their photography skills.
The Alexis P. Gabe Scholarship for Visual Arts awards a grant paid directly to a school art program. This grant aims to enhance art education opportunities and provide resources for schools dedicated to nurturing creativity and artistic expression within their curriculum.
Leave a Reply