Today we’d like to introduce you to Sue Wagner.
So Sue, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been interested in science. As a child, I would ride my Schwinn bike to the nearest wetland, and capture tadpoles, swampy water, soil and plants for a homemade nature habitat. I borrowed 2 X 4s, plastic sheeting and tools from my dad so that I could build habitats, then invite my friends to see the nature exhibits in my backyard. When my uncle gave me a microscope for my 11th birthday, I quickly ran outside to inspect the tiny leaves of duckweed, and wonder at the transformation of the tadpoles to tiny toads.
While in graduate school, I taught part-time. It wasn’t long before I noticed a gap in STEM education and was inspired to shift my focus to science education. I went on to pursue a master’s degree in instructional design at the University of Illinois and went on to teach K-9 science, math, and language arts, with an emphasis on problem-based learning.
While teaching, I became actively involved in an innovative Illinois State Board of Education program called Near and Far Sciences of Illinois. This program enabled a cohort of teacher-leaders to enhance knowledge and application of the earth and space sciences in the classroom. My work with Near and Far Sciences led me to Adler Planetarium, where as Vice President, Exhibits and Programs, I drew upon my love of science and STEM education to shape school and teacher programs, exhibit design, IT, and show production.
In 2009, I joined The Morton Arboretum, a tree-focused botanical garden in Lisle, a western Chicago suburb. For the past nine years, I’ve been privileged to serve as Vice President of Education and Information at an organization that’s incredibly passionate about the environment and protecting trees for a greener, healthier world. Engaging visitors in Illumination, Troll Hunt, and the Children’s Garden and providing people with the tree and plant information they need to increase the health and beauty of our community forest is very satisfying work.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to success is akin to an expressway: traveling at high speeds, taking an exit to explore the area, re-evaluating your direction, getting back on the expressway, going 70 miles per hour and sometimes coming to a screeching halt. Creating a unique, engaging experience for people that’s meaningful and leads to new insights and activity is challenging and fun. Understanding how people learn, engage, remember, and take action is one aspect of success. The most rewarding aspect of my work is applying that knowledge and creating that element of an experience that evokes curiosity, and leads to learning and fun!
Please tell us about The Morton Arboretum.
The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre outdoor tree museum and research center in Lisle, where we work to encourage the planting and conservation of trees and other plants for a greener, healthier, and the more beautiful world. It is one of the world’s leading arboreta and tree research centers, with a team of scientists working tirelessly to create a greener future. Our grounds are beautiful – with 4,500 different kinds of plants, specialty gardens, the award-winning Children’s Garden, 16 miles of hiking trails, and the new Troll Hunt exhibition, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Personally, joy, engagement, and impact are my markers of success. Professionally, I define success by the increasing groundswell of support from Arboretum members and visitors who are inspired to advocate for and take action on behalf of trees because of our programs.
Pricing:
- $15 Adults ages 18–64 ($10 Wednesdays)
- $13 Seniors 65+ ($9 Wednesdays)
- $10 Children ages 2–17 ($7 Wednesdays)
Contact Info:
- Address: 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532
- Website: www.mortonarb.org
- Phone: 630-968-0074
- Email: trees@mortonarb.org
Image Credit:
The Morton Arboretum
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
