Dear Docents and Volunteers,
I write you today with two messages. First an update on the Land Acknowledgment and then second my final goodbye.
First – The Land Acknowledgment.
At the recent Executive Committee meeting the Land Acknowledgment statement was discussed. The conclusion was that this is a healthy institutional discussion that should be inclusive of all stakeholders. Overall people were supportive of the intent but not in alignment on the proposed roll out. It was recommended that a DEI Committee be formed made up of 3 Board members, 3 docents, 1 volunteer and 3 staff. This committee would be focused on the implementation of Goal 3 of the Strategic Plan “CAC Strives to represent the diversity in all that we do” and will develop the next steps around Land Acknowledgement. We should acknowledge that to have weight, the Land Acknowledgment needs to be part of a larger strategy. If the only action is to roll out the Land Acknowledgment it will not have the impact we want.
Second – my departure.
It is with a heavy heart that I leave the CAC, this wonderful institution that we have worked together to build. One of my proudest moments was becoming a Docent in the Class of 97. I have so enjoyed the many friendships that I have made along the way (including of course that special one with my husband, former docent Chris Multhauf). You are a very special group of people and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to lead this fine institution for the past 25 years. I am not going far as the Board has made me President Emerita so that I will continue to be engaged.
So this is not goodbye. It is just a change and a chance to promote this city we love on a larger scale. My heart will always belong to the CAC.
Warm regards,
Lynn
Lynn Osmond, CAE, Honorary AIA
President and CEO
Chicago Architecture Center
Starting May 11 my new contact information will be:
Lynn Osmond
President and CEO
Choose Chicago
312-567-8588
lo*****@ch***********.com