Hamilton Wings, an arts nonprofit serving the Elgin area for over three decades, officially dissolved on September 30. This decision followed a period of reflection by the board of directors after the unexpected death of founder and Executive Director, Risé Jones, in December 2024.
In a letter posted in August, the board explained their decision to cease operations. Despite successes, such as increased attendance and revenue from their 23rd student opera, SCORE!, the board faced the challenge of sustaining the organization without Jones’s vision, along with potential long-term funding issues.
Donna Anderson, Hamilton Wings Board President, stated that around 40 children and 20 adults participated in staging SCORE!. The last after-school program, Girls in Motion, was held at Washington Elementary School, focusing on building students’ confidence.
Anderson reflected on the impact Hamilton Wings had over the years, noting the positive influence on hundreds of children. She praised Dr. Jones for transforming the lives of many young participants. Local attorney and Board Treasurer Jeff Meyer also emphasized the organization’s role in developing children’s leadership skills through the arts.
Founded by Jones and her mother in 1996, Hamilton Wings was named in honor of her father. In a letter, Brittany Barber, who took on the role of Executive Director in September 2025, stressed the lasting legacy of Hamilton Wings in the community.
“What Dr. Jones taught us lives on every time a child dares to create,” Barber remarked.
Financial assets and unspent grants were returned, and costumes donated. Plans to establish an arts scholarship at Elgin Community College in memory of Jones were underway with support from local philanthropists.
The board’s decision closes a significant chapter in Elgin’s arts history, embodying a dedication to fostering creativity and leadership among youth.