Hamilton Wings: A Beloved Arts Nonprofit Bids Farewell After 30 Years

After over three decades of enriching the arts scene in the Elgin area, Hamilton Wings, a cherished nonprofit, formally dissolved on September 30. This decision followed the unexpected passing of its founder and Executive Director, Risé Jones, in December 2024.

The organization’s board announced in August that despite recent successes such as increased attendance and revenue for their 23rd student-written opera, SCORE!, the challenge of sustaining Jones’ unique vision and potential long-term funding issues led to their decision. SCORE! was performed at Elgin Community College, where Hamilton Wings had been an artist-in-residence ensemble. Over the summer, the group also refined donor engagement processes, recruited five new board members, and streamlined operations.

“Despite these achievements, the board and leadership recognized the immense challenge of sustaining an organization so intrinsically tied to its founder’s unique vision, alongside an impending long-term funding shortage,” the letter noted.

Board President Donna Anderson, in a phone interview on October 6, shared that about 40 children and 20 adults participated in various roles for SCORE!. Hamilton Wings’ final after-school program was conducted last school year at Washington Elementary School; it was aptly named Girls in Motion and led by Danae Anderson, focusing on boosting confidence and self-esteem through movement and arts.

Reflecting on her friendship with Jones that began over 30 years ago, Anderson emphasized the profound impact Hamilton Wings had on its participants. She expressed that alumni often moved her to tears with their fond memories of Jones, who had significantly influenced their lives and self-worth.

Jeff Meyer, a local attorney and Hamilton Wings Board Treasurer, acknowledged the irreplaceable role of Risé Jones in the organization. Despite his non-arts background, he admired Hamilton Wings’ mission and saw its immense impact on children’s development of leadership skills through art, helping them gain confidence and express themselves.

Founded in 1996 by Jones with her mother Ann and named after her psychologist father Charles Hamilton Jones, Hamilton Wings aimed at encouraging creativity and leadership in children. According to a letter by Brittany Barber, appointed as executive director in September 2025, the organization’s legacy will continue through the values and inspiration it imparted to the community.

“What Dr. Jones taught us lives on every time a child dares to create, every time an alum champions the arts and every time our community pursues a bold idea. Hamilton Wings lasted long enough to deeply impact this city, and that is a legacy we will carry forward,” Barber expressed.

The organization’s financial assets and unused grant funds are being returned, while costumes and stage materials are being donated to local partners. A proposal by local philanthropists Mark and Robin Seigle aims to establish an arts scholarship at Elgin Community College in Jones’ memory, utilizing any remaining funds.