MEET OUR OWNERS!

Buffy Folise

I have been working in aquatics for over 30 years, teaching swim lessons, coaching swim team, and building a career in this industry. After graduating from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science in Apparel Merchandising, I worked as an Assistant Manager at Nordstrom before returning to aquatics as a Children’s Aquatics Coordinator. I spent seven years in that role before purchasing Chicago Swim School with Rob, where we continue to help families and students achieve their swimming goals.

I’ve also had the privilege of serving on the United States Swim School Association (USSSA) Board of Directors for seven years, including two years as Vice President and two years as President. I also work on the Accreditation program for the International Swim School Association (ISSA), helping ensure swim schools around the world meet the highest standards of safety and instruction.

I live in the Chicago area with my husband, Chris and our four children-Anthony, Maxwell, Isabella, and Cecelia. When I’m not busy with my family or work, I enjoy going to concerts and events, and doing home improvement projects.

Rob Jacobsen

Teaching has always been a love and passion. I started teaching swim lessons when I was 16 and found I really loved working with kids and seeing them master new skills and gain confidence. After graduating from Eastern Illinois University, I taught high school Physical Education and started coaching swimming at the high school and club level. After teaching at the high school level for 3 years, I was called back into aquatics management and found a new love and passion for leadership and training staff.

When the opportunity to purchase Chicago Swim School presented itself, I was able to blend my love for teaching with leadership and staff training. While I still love teaching, my fulfillment now comes from developing staff into leaders who can make their own impact. I also continue my impact by serving on the United States Swim School Assoc Certification Committee in the implementation of their national swim instructor certification.

I reside in Oak Lawn and have 2 kids, Ryne and Kira. In my free time I am an avid cyclist and skier.