Jennifer Stokes, a Webster Groves native and 1998 graduate of Webster Groves High School, advanced to the rank of senior chief petty officer in the U.S. Navy on Oct. 9 during a promotion ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard, home to the U.S. Navy Band, in which she serves.
As an E-8, Stokes joins an elite list of fewer than 2% of sailors to achieve this career milestone. She joined the U.S. Navy Band in 2009 as a bassoonist in the concert and ceremonial band after winning a national audition and following the completion of basic training.
Prior to joining the Navy, she earned a bachelor’s degree and master of music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music.