Jacob Schroeder, a brilliant young professional from Houston, Texas, tragically passed away at the tender age of 24. His untimely death is a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends, and the many organizations that had the privilege of working with him. At the time of his passing, Jacob was a Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company, where he had only recently started his career but had already made a significant impact.
Jacob’s journey began in his hometown of Houston, but his academic and professional endeavors took him across the globe. He graduated with honors from Vanderbilt University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and History, with minors in Business and Spanish. During his time at Vanderbilt, Jacob was an active member of the academic community, excelling in leadership roles such as his tenure as Chair of the Vanderbilt Executive Council at the American Enterprise Institute.
Before joining McKinsey in September 2022, Jacob had an impressive portfolio of internships, leadership roles, and entrepreneurial ventures. He was Head of International Strategy at Outside The Box in Cordoba, Argentina, where he had the opportunity to lead innovative projects. In addition, Jacob gained valuable experience as a Strategy Lead at Draft.ly and as a Summer Analyst at BlackRock in New York City.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jacob was deeply committed to giving back to his community. He volunteered his time as a Digital Media Strategist for Brawl for a Cause and as a Resident Advisor at the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs. His work as a Teaching Assistant for professors Michael Ainslie and Patrick Leddin at Vanderbilt University showcased his passion for mentoring others and sharing his knowledge.
Jacob’s life was defined by his ambition, intellectual curiosity, and a drive to make a positive impact on the world. Those who knew him remember him as a person of extraordinary intellect, with a kind heart and a warm spirit. His potential seemed boundless, and his future looked incredibly bright.
In remembering Jacob, we reflect on a young man whose life was marked by promise and dedication. While his time with us was far too short, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire many who continue to work toward the values he held dear—innovation, leadership, and community.
Jacob’s family, friends, and colleagues at McKinsey & Company, Vanderbilt University, and beyond will continue to honor his memory. The world has lost a truly remarkable individual, but his impact will never be forgotten.
