Jacob has over 20 years of experience in the Blues industry as a performer, radio host and promoter. He is a strategic leader in nonprofit development with extensive experience in program development and community engagement. Jacob holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban and Public Affairs and a Master of Public Administration, bringing more than a decade of leadership experience across education, workforce development, human resources and grant fund management. He bridges artistic vision with organizational strategy, has helped shape CCBA’s programmatic framework and partnerships, and plays a pivotal role in cultural strategy, fundraising and institutional development.
Founding Leadership
Larry Skoller
Founder · Artistic Strategy & Production
With over 35 years in the music industry and deep roots in the Chicago Blues community, Larry is the founder of Raisin’ Music and a three-time Grammy-nominated producer. His work includes roles as musician, producer, artistic director, record-label president, festival creator, artist manager, international booking and tour producer, and music educator. He has created and produced events for cultural institutions across the United States, Europe and Africa—including the City of Chicago, the City of New Orleans and the U.S. State Department under both the Obama and Biden administrations.
A Blues harmonica master, three-time Grammy nominee and Emmy Award winner, Billy has recorded over 300 Blues albums and founded the groundbreaking Blues in the Schools program. He serves on the boards of the Blues Foundation and Little Walter Foundation and was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2020. His work has shaped generations of musicians and educators globally.
Founding Leadership
Rosa Enrico Branch
Co-Education Director
A passionate global ambassador for the Blues and co-founder of the Chicago Center for the Blues Arts, Rosa has worked across education, artist management and international booking. Her leadership has helped expand Blues education and advocacy across the United States, Europe, South America and Asia.
Strategic Partners
Founding Advisors
Legal, cultural and industry expertise helping guide CCBA’s institutional development.
Founding Advisor
Tony Mangiullo
Founding Advisor · Live Performance & Production
Founder and owner of Rosa’s Lounge, one of Chicago’s most iconic Blues venues, and a longtime advocate for live Blues performance.
Founding Advisor
Marni Willenson
Strategic Legal Advisor
Civil-rights and entertainment attorney, co-founder of Rosa’s Lounge Records, and advisor on nonprofit, music and copyright law.
Founding Leadership
Building CCBA’s Board of Directors & Advisory Council
CCBA is forming its founding Board of Directors and Advisory Council, bringing together a diverse group of leaders from the arts, education, the music industry, nonprofit and community organizations, and the public and private sectors to help establish the Center and guide its development.
