Hamilton Wings Dissolution Marks End of an Era in Elgin

After over 30 years of service, the nonprofit arts organization Hamilton Wings officially dissolved on September 30. The organization’s closure followed a decision by the board of directors, sparked by introspection after the unexpected death of founder and Executive Director Risé Jones in December 2024.

In a letter shared on Hamilton Wings’ website in August, the board highlighted its decision came after evaluating the challenges of continuing without Jones. During the summer, the organization experienced a surge in attendance and revenue from its 23rd SCORE!, a student-driven opera performed at Elgin Community College where Hamilton Wings functioned as an artist-in-residence ensemble. Despite achievements in donor engagement, board recruitment, and operational efficiency, sustaining the organization without its founder’s vision proved daunting amid looming funding shortages.

Board President Donna Anderson shared that SCORE! involved approximately 40 children and 20 adults. She noted the last after-school program occurred during the previous academic year at Washington Elementary School, focusing on confidence-building through arts. Anderson reminisced about her friendship with Jones, which began over 30 years ago at the YWCA Elgin. Her involvement in Hamilton Wings spanned over two decades, impacting numerous children’s lives positively.

Local attorney and board treasurer Jeff Meyer, involved since 2009, lauded the transformative effects Hamilton Wings had on children. Although lacking a personal arts background, Meyer admired the organization’s mission and its unique approach to nurturing leadership skills through the arts.

Founded by Risé Jones in 1996 alongside her mother, Ann Jones, the group was named in memory of her father, Charles Hamilton Jones. The current executive director, Brittany Barber, assured the community that Hamilton Wings’ legacy endures. She emphasized that the values instilled by Dr. Jones continue to inspire creativity and innovation within the community.

Financial assets and unspent grants are being returned, with costumes and stage materials donated to local nonprofits as per the letter. The organization concluded its partnership with Elgin Community College. Following suggestions by local philanthropists, remaining funds will contribute to an arts scholarship at ECC in memory of Jones and Hamilton Wings.