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ames G. Allen, Jr. is a dedicated and compassionate board member of the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra. He brings a wealth of experience from his diverse career and community involvement, contributing to our mission to create a community of young musicians, enrich their lives and those of their families, schools, communities, and beyond, through the study and performance of excellent music.

James lives in Elgin, Illinois, with his partner, Peter, and their nephew, William, whom they've helped raise since he was seven. He is an active member of his community, serving on various boards and participating in local initiatives.

He is a seasoned Flight Attendant for United Airlines, where he has been flying for 18 years. His career in the skies has honed his skills in communication, problem-solving, and customer service, which he applies to his duties at EYSO.

In addition to his role with United Airlines, James has been working as a Paralegal for the Law Offices of Andrew J. Sosnowski since June 2022. He dedicates most of his time with the firm to provide Pro Bono legal services alongside Volunteers of America Illinois, supporting their Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program. This experience has given him a deep understanding of the legal and social challenges many veterans face.

James graduated from Elgin Community College in December 2022 with an Associate in Arts and an Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies. He graduated with high honors, boasting a 3.9 GPA, and was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. His time at Elgin Community College was marked by significant leadership roles, including serving as the 2021-2022 Student Trustee, 2020-2021 Vice President of Student Government, and 2021-2022 President of the Students Who Are Not Silent (SWANS), the LGBTQIA+ Student organization on campus.

His commitment to public service is further demonstrated by his internships, including a term at Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi's Schaumburg District Office in Fall 2021, where he assisted with constituent needs and put a special focus on housing insecurities. Following this, he interned at the Kane County State's Attorney's Office in the fall of 2022. There, he worked within the Drug and Domestic Violence units, supporting Assistant State’s Attorneys in handling multiple cases and trials.

In addition to his role at EYSO, James is a board member for Open Door Health Center of Illinois and a member of the Bright Futures Campaign Cabinet of the Elgin Community College Foundation.

James’s commitment to service, his passion for music, and his dedication to nurturing young talent make him an invaluable member of the EYSO board. His work within the Elgin community mirrors EYSO’s philosophy of comprehensive learning and critical thinking, and he is excited to continue fostering a space where young musicians can grow and thrive.