Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Welcomes Dr. Toni-Marie Montgomery and Bradley Byrd to its Board of Directors


Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Welcomes Dr. Toni-Marie Montgomery and Bradley Byrd to its Board of Directors

Chicago Jazz Philharmonic (CJP), the nation's leading Third Stream orchestra and educational organization, is pleased to welcome Dr. Toni-Marie Montgomery and Bradley Byrd to its Board of Directors. Their appointments bring a wealth of experience in education, leadership, philanthropy, and community engagement that will further strengthen CJP's mission to transform lives through music, education, and cultural innovation.

Dr. Toni-Marie Montgomery is one of the nation's most respected leaders in higher education and the arts. She most recently served as Dean of the Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University, where she led transformative initiatives that enhanced academic excellence, expanded community engagement, and generated millions of dollars in philanthropic support for the institution. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Montgomery has been a champion for arts education, student success, and creating pathways for emerging artists and scholars. Her visionary leadership and commitment to educational equity have earned her national recognition across the arts and higher education sectors.

Bradley Byrd is a seasoned financial services executive with extensive experience advising companies and investment firms on strategic capital-raising initiatives and organizational growth. Throughout his career, he has also played a significant leadership role in talent management and workforce development initiatives. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Byrd has dedicated himself to community service through board leadership and volunteerism. He has served on the Governing Board of the Abraham Lincoln Center and Flossmoor Community Church and volunteers with organizations including Chicago CARE and the Greenwood Project, helping to expand financial literacy and career opportunities for young people from underrepresented communities.

The son of educators and a former Chicago Public Schools student, Byrd is a passionate advocate for education and mentorship. He holds degrees from Purdue University and the University of Michigan and resides in Flossmoor, Illinois, with his wife, Stephanie, and their two children. A lifelong admirer of jazz, Byrd developed his appreciation for the art form while playing in his high school band and continues to enjoy music, travel, fitness, and golf.

As Chicago Jazz Philharmonic continues to expand its impact through innovative performances, educational programming, and community partnerships, the addition of Dr. Montgomery and Byrd reflects the organization's commitment to strong leadership and a bold vision for the future. Their expertise, perspectives, and dedication to service will help advance CJP's mission of inspiring audiences, nurturing young artists, and creating meaningful cultural experiences that enrich communities throughout Chicago and beyond.

 

About Chicago Jazz Philharmonic

Founded in 2004 by Orbert Davis and Mark Ingram, the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic is dedicated to transforming lives through music. From its inception as the first Chicago Jazz artist-led orchestra at the Chicago Jazz Festival to its innovative educational initiatives, CJP continues to inspire audiences and students alike. Driven by a belief in music’s power to foster understanding and change, CJP’s performances celebrate cultural heritage, resilience, and hope.

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