We’d love to hear from you about a memorable, or unique, or funny, or sweet experience on one of your tours.
The family of Leanne Star, docent from the class of 2011 who died last year, is making a one-time award in her honor. They are calling it the Shining Star Award and will announce the winning story at DAN on June 9, 2022.
If you knew Leanne, you knew her love of writing and a good competition, along with architecture of course. All docents are invited to submit a short story of a tour experience that highlights a time when they had to go above and beyond to provide a unique and memorable experience for the guests. This can also include funny and unexpected moments in a tour. Below is a memorable moment for Leanne that was published in the 50th Anniversary Book. May it be an inspiration to you.
I’m a romantic at heart, so when I learned that a man wanted to propose onboard a cruise I was leading, I was all over it, exchanging emails with him about how we would orchestrate it. As the boat turned by Navy Pier, I asked if anyone had questions. He rose and popped the question, surrounded by photographers because I asked everyone to take pictures of what was happening. Some things are more important than architecture.
Leanne’s family will be presenting Shining Star Awards in her honor at this year’s Docent Appreciation Night on June 9th to those who shared their memorable stories. Please email submissions to Caroline at cd***@ar**********.org by APRIL 1st. All submissions will be posted on The Bridge. Suggested word count is 250-500 words.