BJ's Mom- Honoring Joan Dameron Crisler- 2025

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Location: James R. Doolittle Elementary, Chicago, IL

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Project Description: 

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Joan Dameron Crisler, a beloved retired Chicago Public Schools principal, has devoted her life to education, cultural pride, and community service. Born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, she led Arthur Dixon Elementary School for more than 20 years, championing innovative programs such as the first student run bank in a CPS elementary school and Cultural Connections, an African Marketplace which continues to take place every spring. This annual event continues to draw artists and vendors from across the country and gives students valuable real world business experience. A passionate Black art collector and co-founder of the Chicago based collective Diaspora Rhythms, Joan fostered a deep appreciation for art both at Dixon and in her personal life.

 

Her influence in education reached beyond her school through LAUNCH, a program that has prepared more than 240 leaders and hired over 100 principals for CPS. For over five decades, she has served actively in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and as a member of the South Suburban LINKS, reflecting a steadfast commitment to service.

 

Her greatest joy, however, is being “BJ’s Mom.” Her son, Bruce Allen Crisler Jr., affectionately known as “B.J.,” was a bright and creative young man. He was an accomplished scuba diver with dreams of becoming a marine biologist. Though his life ended in 1994 at the age of 13, his spirit continues to inspire Joan’s dedication to uplifting and empowering children.

 

The Joan Dameron Crisler Sensory Room at Doolittle Elementary, conceived by Joan, creates a welcoming space that supports the learning and imagination of neurodivergent children. At the entrance, the 30 square foot mosaic Lyric’s World celebrates their creativity, while the 160 square foot back wall mosaic BJ’s Mom shares Joan’s story through her most cherished role as mother and the ripple effect of B.J.’s life on countless students touched by his mom’s influence. With this project, Joan once again champions innovative ideas that open new worlds for young developing minds.

 

Created by Chicago artist Carolyn Elaine, with assistant artist Hasani Cannon, these mosaic artworks stand as a tribute to love, legacy, and the enduring power of education.

 

Artist assistant: Hasani Cannon

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Photography: Tony Smith

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