A Fond Farewell to the Director of First Impressions

She’s been the first and friendly face that has greeted countless visitors to the Lisle Park District.  For 14 years, Pat Newman of Wheaton has reigned as the supreme greeter at the front desk. 

“Her nameplate reads the Director of First Impressions,” said Newman’s supervisor, Lisa Leoni, director of operations. “She’s the only one I know who could have that title and pull it off.  She’s that serious and dedicated about putting the park district first and making sure that patrons have what they need.” 

On Friday December 16, Newman will begin a two week vacation directly after which she will begin her retirement. 

“We’ll be sad to see her go,” said Leoni.

Newman applied for the park district job in 1997 after the business for which she had been working as an administrative assistant, moved out of state. Her responsibilities at the park district have included registration, ordering office supplies, and working special events. One of her favorite parts of her job description has been her role as Mrs. Claus for the annual Cookies with Mrs. Claus program.

“One of our recreation staff members introduced a program about five years ago and we’ve been doing it most years since,” said Newman. “It lasts about two hours. We take pictures, read Christmas stories, make holiday crafts, decorate holiday cookies and more. It’s a lot of fun.” 

In addition to becoming Mrs. Claus for the annual program, Newman also visits the park district’s six preschool classes. 

“I go with Santa. We talk to the children, ask them what they want for Christmas and pass out candy canes. We’re talking two and-a-half to four year olds. This is a very fun job,” she said.

Leoni said that Newman’s retirement will be a loss to the park district.

“She is so friendly and caring,” she said. “People always comment on how fun she is. She’s such a pleasant person to be around.”   

Leoni added, “She’s always so cheerful. Customers are her number one priority. She will always do whatever it takes to make sure that the customer is first.”  

Patrons of the park district, former staff members and representatives from the park board came to honor her at her retirement party this week. 

“She’s very well loved,” said Leoni.

Newman has mixed feelings about retirement; looking forward to a new chapter in her life, but leaving a job she has loved.

“When you make a good first impression, it feels good,” said Newman. “I’m a people-person. I love the contact with the families here in Lisle and in Naperville.  And the children, I enjoy being around children and I get to see them a lot. It’s a great place to work. The staff is great and supportive, professionally and personally. It’s been a good run.”

Newman said that she has not yet been replaced, but that whoever does take over will need to bring her own nameplate. The director of first impressions explained, “I’m taking mine with me!”