Joffrey Women's Board Presidents: A Lasting Legacy
By Joffrey Inside Co-Chairs Sandy Mandel and Maggie Scheyer
Maureen Dwyer Smith, President 2002-2004
Following the Joffrey Ballet's move from New York to Chicago, Maureen Dwyer Smith, then a member of the Board of Directors, envisioned a new initiative to root the Company in its new home: The Women's Board. As founding President, Maureen led with vision and determination. Under her guidance, the board became the organization’s strongest advocates, launching its first galas and luncheons, the Costume Project, the Community Engagement program, in addition to scholarships and fundraising efforts. Maureen built a new board from the ground up. Her enduring legacy and memory will forever inspire.
Helen Hall Melchior, President 2004-2007
Helen, a founding member and chair of the 2004 Gala, stepped into the presidency passionately and humbly. Under her leadership, board membership tripled in one year and increased fundraising efforts. She established the board's bylaws and governance structure and launched signature events like Couture & Cocktails and Destination Dance. Helen credits the Women's Board for their devotion to Joffrey and the lasting friendships they forged.
Kathleen Klaeser, President 2007-2009
Kathleen led the board during a time of significant transition, including the move to the Joffrey Tower and the appointment of The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater. The passing of Joffrey Ballet co-founder Gerald Arpino marked the end of an era, but Kathleen ensured the board remained focused and united. She is proud to have helped position the Women's Board as a passionate and impactful force behind Joffrey's growing influence.
Christine Rahill, President 2009-2011
Christine was inspired to take on the presidency, driven by her belief in Ashley Wheater's artistic vision and the direction he was taking the Company. Drawing from her business background, she focused on revenue generation and community engagement. Christine led successful fundraising events during her term, including the Nutcracker Family Dinner and the Spring Gala, which welcomed former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Alongside Kim White, Christine launched the Joffrey Store, creating a new revenue stream through merchandise that connected audiences with the art they love.
Melissa Babcock, President 2011-2013
A founding member, Melissa took on the presidency at a personally meaningful time, inspired by her late mother and encouraged by her late husband. With prior experience in development at Loyola Academy, Melissa met growing budget demands and enhanced awareness of Joffrey's Community Engagement programs. Of all her board service, she is most proud to have served as President and remains deeply grateful for the friendships formed through the Joffrey.
Liz Sharp, President 2013-2015
With extensive experience in operations and governance, Liz brought structure and innovation to her tenure. She chaired the Nutcracker Luncheon, the Membership Committee, and the gala. Liz established Women's Night, a pre-show networking reception that continues to enrich the board's impact today. When faced with a last-minute change in the annual gala venue, her leadership ensured a smooth transition and a successful event. Liz values the board's resilience and commitment to making ballet accessible for all.
Patti Eylar, President 2015-2018
Patti embraced her role as President with determination. She led the board's largest fundraising initiative: the Nutcracker Costume Maintenance Fund. This three-year campaign established a precedent for Women's Board contributions to productions, paving the way for En Pointe and other future initiatives. Patti also strengthened internal camaraderie, networking, and accountability, cementing the board's role as a critical support for Joffrey.
Noren Ungaretti, President 2018-2020
With her strong business and philanthropic background, Noren’s effective leadership focused on diversifying membership and unifying the board. She navigated the onset of COVID-19 with resilience, keeping the board focused on its mission during a time of uncertainty. Her efforts kept the heart of the Joffrey beating strong through the early days of the pandemic.
Sandi Hartstein, President 2020-2022
How do you keep the Women's Board engaged during a global pandemic? Sandi Hartstein had to face this extraordinary challenge. She established Rendez-vous to keep members connected through socially distanced walks, outdoor meetups, and Zoom calls. To support the Company, Sandi coordinated efforts to provide flooring for dancers to train at home. Sandi’s goal was to keep the boards connected, maintaining alignment with the Board of Directors. Her dedication kept the Joffrey and the Women's Board resilient and engaged.
Ellie Forman, President 2022-2024
Ellie stepped in post-pandemic with a focus on re-engagement, developing programs, like JoffreyInside, in addition to reviewing governance and reimagining fundraising events. During her tenure, the Joffrey remodeled the annual gala into the Joffrey Celebration, a vibrant new event style that exceeded revenue expectations and strengthened community spirit. Ellie prioritized member inclusion and compassion, aligning the board's purpose with Joffrey's artistic and outreach goals.
Farissa Knox, President 2024-Present
Farissa made history as the first black President of the Women's Board, leading with strategic vision and expanding the board's impact through inclusivity and innovation. She spearheaded JoffreyNext, a new Women's Board fundraiser supporting the artists of tomorrow and increasing access to dance education for youth across Chicago. Farissa’s commitment to meaningful member engagement and future-focused fundraising initiatives supports the Joffrey's mission while shaping its future on the global stage. Under her leadership, the Women's Board is redefining what it means to be ambassadors for the Joffrey, becoming more dynamic and forward-thinking than ever before.
Moving the Joffrey Forward, Together
Here's to our fearless leaders who have advanced The Joffrey Ballet. Our presidents have embraced their goals, led mission-first, and possessed the compassion to guide the Joffrey far into the future. A huge thank you to all!