After a decade long apprenticeship in Chicago’s vibrant music scene, Alison Ruble has emerged in recent years as one of the city’s premier and in demand jazz vocalists. Having honed her skills with steady work at a number of Chicago’s high profile jazz rooms, including The Green Mill; Joe Segal’s Jazz Showcase, and Andy’s Jazz Club, Alison has etched out a distinct style that has drawn increasing attention from critics and audiences alike. In addition to extensive club work, she has appeared in a variety of theatre and festival settings, including Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Chicago Jazz Festival.

Alison has worked with the USO (United Service Organizations) of Illinois since 2003, first as their entertainment director, then as media, marketing & public relations director. She now leads the organization as its President & CEO, responsible for all the programs and operations of a mission that serves more than 300,000 active duty, guard and reserve military and military families every year with over 300 programs and services at six USO center locations. Alison is an Honorary Member of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, serves as a member on the Illinois Discharged Service member Task Force, is a recipient of the Patriotic Civilian Service award in recognition for patriotic civilian service in support of the mission of U.S. Army, serves on Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White’s Veterans Advisory Council, the Armed Forces Council of Chicago, and is a member of the Steering Committee for the Chicago Navy Memorial project. Now in its 71st year, the USO is a civilian, 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that relies on the generosity of the American people to continue its work. Learn more at usoofillinois.org.