Sheila Jones

As part of a statewide celebration of Women’s History Month, Sheila Jones, coordinator and founder of the CSO’s African American Network, will be honored by Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza as one of a group of distinguished individuals who embody the spirit of female leadership and achievement.

March is “a time to honor and celebrate Women’s History Month by remembering the individuals and events that have contributed to our history and its positive change,” said Mendoza in a statement. “Join the Illinois Comptroller’s Office as we honor the trailblazers of the past and applaud today’s visionaries for their ongoing efforts.” The recognition ceremony will be March 16 in the Blue Room of the James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph.

With the support of CSO Music Director Riccardo Muti, Jones, a member of the orchestra’s Patron Services staff, launched the African American Network in 2016. Through its mission of engaging Chicago’s African American community “through the sharing and exchanging of unforgettable musical experiences,” the AAN presents several events and pre-concert receptions each season. Its next event will be a screening at 4 p.m. Feb. 24 of the silent film “The Scar of Shame” (1927), featuring a new score by Chicago-based composer Renèe Baker.

For more information about “The Scar of Shame” event, click here.

TOP: Sheila Jones (center) with members and supporters of the CSO’s African American Network outside Symphony Center.