This year’s ArtsPartner of the Year Award was presented to Mary Jo Papich, a visionary leader and lifelong advocate for arts education. Papich is internationally recognized as the co-founder and first president of the Jazz Education Network (JEN), active in over 20 countries, and has dedicated more than 35 years to arts education and cultural leadership. Locally, she served as Fine Arts Coordinator for Peoria Public Schools District 150, where she founded the Peoria Jazz All Stars, leading students to perform on world-class stages including the Montreux, North Sea, and Umbria Jazz Festivals. She has served as a founding board member and past president of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois and continues to champion access to the arts through her work with numerous community organizations.
“As ArtsPartners celebrates 25 years, it feels especially meaningful to honor someone whose lifelong dedication to the arts helped shape this organization and the creative spirit of Peoria,” said Dr. Mae Gilliland Wright, Executive Director of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois. “Mary Jo’s leadership, mentorship, and passion for making the arts accessible to all have inspired countless individuals both here and around the world.”
From her early years as an award-winning music educator in Peoria Public Schools to her international leadership as the co-founder and first president of the Jazz Education Network, Mary Jo has built bridges through music, mentorship, and advocacy.
She founded the Peoria Jazz All Stars, served as a driving force behind the Fine Arts Fair, chaired Ignite Peoria, and has been an unwavering champion for artists, students, and audiences alike.
Her lifelong commitment has inspired thousands — locally, nationally, and globally — and her leadership continues to amplify Peoria’s voice on the world stage.
