Joyce Sloane
Joyce Sloane, affectionately known as the cherished "mother" of Chicago's Second City, played a pivotal role in the founding of The Academy. She was one of the original board members and visionaries who breathed life into the school.
Joyce's connection with Second City was nothing short of remarkable, spanning from its early years until her passing in 2011. Her journey within Second City saw her take on many roles, including associate producer, executive producer, founder of the e.t.c Company, founder of the national touring company, co-founder of the Toronto Second City, and the enduring title of "mom" to countless artists, both locally and globally.
As a nurturing figure to a vast community of Chicago artists, Joyce possessed an unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts. It was during a coffee meeting with Chicago sculptor Zelda Werner and several future Academy board members that Joyce's conviction for an arts school crystallized. She saw not only the importance but the sheer necessity of such a school.
From left to right: Joyce Sloane, Julie Wilson, and Pamela Jordan.
Joyce Sloane and Jim Belushi at the “Academy Honors” Gala.
Joyce's contributions to The Academy were immeasurable. She dedicated herself to the institution, serving on the Board of Trustees for many years and taking on the role of Board Chair in the 90s. Joyce's love and support for our graduates were evident in a touching tradition: at every graduation ceremony, she personally handed a long-stemmed red rose to each and every graduating student, symbolizing her pride and belief in their artistic journeys.
Joyce's legacy remains woven into the very fabric of The Academy, a testament to her steadfast dedication to the arts and her profound impact on the lives of countless artists and students.