Missouri native Javon Jackson, a former member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, is celebrated for his soulful, expressive saxophone sound and innovative approach to jazz. A prolific recording artist, he has performed with legends like Elvin Jones and Christian McBride and composed scores for projects such as Alfred Hitchcock’s The Lodger. Jackson’s recent work, including "The Gospel According to Nikki Giovanni", highlights his ability to blend tradition with bold, contemporary ideas. He currently directs the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz Studies at the University of Hartford. This performance is part of Connect2Culture's Cornell Series 2025–2026. Doors open at 6:30pm. Tickets may be purchased at connect2culture.org, (417) 621-9824, or at the C2C box office inside the Cornell Complex (Tue–Sat | 1–5pm). Tickets: $40–$45.