Sheryl Woods
Floor Lead – The Arboretum Store
What is your favorite season at the Arboretum and why?
Sheryl began her employment at the Arboretum last March, so spring was the first season she experienced at the Arboretum. But being from the Midwest and living in Lisle, fall is actually her favorite season. Sheryl believes you can’t beat the change of colors, the crisp air, and the blue skies in fall.
What is the best part of your job?
Most definitely the interaction with the members and guests is the best part of her job. Sheryl feels lucky that in the Store, she meets and interacts with so many diverse groups and people from other countries. The patrons will ask Sheryl and the team for information and suggestions on what to do at the Arboretum and they will engage in conversations about the Arboretum. She recognizes that one of their main roles in the Store is to sell products, but it’s also about being there for the members and guests.
Do you have a favorite location on the grounds or a favorite tree?
The trail through the Conifer Collection is one of her favorite spots, partially because of the peacefulness of the spruces and pines, but also due in part to the Vanishing Acts exhibit along the dwarf conifer collection. Reading the information gives Sheryl hope that action is being taken to save the endangered trees of the world.
What do you want guests to know about The Morton Arboretum and its mission?
It’s important for guests to understand that the Arboretum is doing something to help the world. It is a beautiful place, of course, but the Arboretum is working to conserve trees, and that the mission will help everyone, not just The Morton Arboretum. Even though Sheryl works in the Store, and may not be working on the grounds as a researcher or a grower, she understands the importance of the work being completed. This was one of the reasons that Sheryl decided to apply to work in The Arboretum Store. She saw that employees cared about the mission regardless of their role, and she wanted to be a part of that.
When thinking of the Arboretum’s Employee Core Values, which one resonates with you and why?
Sheryl feels strongly about the Employee Core Value to Work Together. Some of the team in The Arboretum Store have been employed for several years, with varying levels of knowledge and information. Sheryl feels the team works so well together that they are able to use their collective knowledge and information to benefit the guests and members, creating a fun and exciting atmosphere for all. Wrapping up her first year of employment this month, Sheryl has learned a great deal from her colleagues and appreciates that it is truly a team effort in the Store. While they are still learning from each other, they also complement each other well and are able to share different perspectives, creating a collaborative environment.
What’s an insider tip that you’d like to share with guests?
In the fall, The Arboretum Store sells amazing mums that are sourced locally and are well-priced. Sheryl encourages patrons of The Arboretum Store to explore the courtyard for other unique seasonal finds.
Share an interesting fun fact about you:
Sheryl considers herself open to adventure, even though she may not appear so on her exterior. She is willing to give something a try, even if it pushes her out of her comfort zone. For example, Sheryl has been ATVing in the Red Rocks and has been snorkeling and paddleboarding in the Pacific Ocean. Sheryl really wants to stretch herself and eventually wants to give skydiving a try!
