Jacklin B. Stopp

A love of music and community are forever part of Jacklin B. Stopp’s legacy in Niagara County and beyond.  

Born in 1926 in Binghamton, N.Y., Jackie discovered a love of music from a young age. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Julliard School of Music, with her Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, and proudly was granted the titles of Independent Scholar and American Musicologist. 

Jackie, a published author and collector of 19th century American music, wanted to inspire and share her knowledge with younger generations. She did so through teaching positions at SUNY Geneseo, SUNY Buffalo and Medina Central Schools. 

In 1975, Jackie and her husband, Don, moved to Lockport where they became very involved in the community, supporting the Challenger Center, Niagara County Historical Center and several other local organizations. 

As she started to plan for her legacy, Jackie’s attorney, Patricia George, recommended the Niagara Area Foundation, which has been connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in Niagara County since 2000.  

Upon Jackie’s passing in 2022, the Jacklin B. Stopp Bequest was established at the Niagara Area Foundation to carry on her legacy of giving back. According to her wishes, her fund benefits individuals and organizations in Niagara County, particularly ones devoted to symphonic and choral classical music. Now, through that fund, Jackie will continue supporting the region and causes so meaningful to her, in her name, forever.  

 This story is featured in our 2025 Annual Report.