Joliet's New Director Of Special Events Revealed

JOLIET, IL — The city of Joliet has named Ann Sylvester as its new director of cultural affairs and special events.

She will oversee the planning and coordination of community celebrations, special events and cultural initiatives, the city announced Thursday.

Sylvester has previously served as deputy commissioner of operations and permits for the city of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

“She brings not only an impressive track record in executing world-class events, but also a deep understanding of how to engage communities, foster inclusivity, and turn public spaces into cultural landmarks,” Mayor Terry D’Arcy said in a news release. “Her leadership will help Joliet shine on the regional and potentially national stage.”

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Throughout her tenure with the city of Chicago, Sylvester played a key role in the planning and execution of hundreds of large-scale public events, including the Chicago Air & Water Show and the Taste of Chicago, according to the city of Joliet.

She also managed operations at Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center, overseeing multimillion-dollar contracts, post-pandemic reopening strategies and major capital improvement projects.

Additionally, she served as co-chair of the Community Engagement Committee for both NASCAR’s inaugural Chicago Street Race and the 2024 Democratic National Convention.

“With the upcoming Centennial of Route 66 and the transformation of Downtown’s City Square into a vibrant community hub, Joliet is poised for a cultural renaissance,” Sylvester said in the news release.

“I’m eager to collaborate with residents, organizations, and city leaders to create inclusive, memorable experiences that celebrate the city’s unique identity and energize its future.”

Sylvester has a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from Northwestern University and a bachelor’s degree in business from Miami University.