Neighbor News
Jennifer Fukala joins Elgin Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors
Life-long Elgin-area resident has passion for the arts
Jennifer Fukala has joined the Board of Directors at the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. She was appointed to the role at the ESO’s March 1 board meeting.
A life-long Elgin-area resident, Fukala is the Executive Director of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, where her leadership has helped bring greater awareness and activity to downtown Elgin. Under her direction, the Elgin Farmers Market was updated and welcomed increasing crowds to the city. She also works closely with new businesses to assist with their success, and, thus, grow the vibrancy of the Elgin area.
Fukala has a deep love for the arts. She learned to play cello through the District U46 music program starting in fourth grade and continuing her lessons through her graduation from Larkin High School. She previously taught classical ballet on a semi-professional level, having trained from her youth into adulthood. Other career highlights include 14 years of business operations management experience in the food and beverage, entertainment and retail food industries.
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“We’re honored to have Jennifer join the Elgin Symphony Orchestra Board. Her knowledge of our city, love of the arts, and her passion to see our community continue to thrive make her a great addition to our board,” said Erik Malmquist, executive director, Elgin Symphony Orchestra.
The ESO was founded in 1950 and became a fully professional ensemble in 1985. Over its history, the ESO has featured a roster of legendary soloists including classical music legends Yo Yo Ma, Kathleen Battle, Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zucherman, Sir James Galloway and James Ehnes. The ESO has been named Orchestra of the Year four times by the Illinois Council of Orchestras (1988, 1999, 2005 and 2016).
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A community organization that draws its creativity and artistry from the Elgin area, the ESO is dedicated to giving back to the areas it serves. Ensemble members regularly perform at local hospitals and hospice centers, offer music education programs within local schools, and provide free experiences through the Listeners Club and open-to-the-public rehearsals.
The ESO is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. To learn more or to support the ESO, visit www.elginsymphony.org.