Doorperson of the Month: Daphnee Jean-Baptiste, Parkview Condominiums

Doorperson Daphnee Jean-Baptiste enjoys serving others because hospitality runs in her family.

Born in Haiti, her father moved to America and began a career in security before later joining Chicago’s service industry. Once settled in the Windy City, he brought Jean-Baptiste, then just 7 years old, along to join him.

“I got into the whole service industry because of my father,” said Jean-Baptiste, whose father currently works as a doorman down the street on McClurg Court.

Jean-Baptiste said it was nice to have the same career as her father, as he often shares tips and great advice with her.

“The best advice he has given me? ‘Just be you, just take it easy, and just pay attention to yourself and what you are here to do: a job,’” she said.

With an associate’s degree in computer science, Jean-Baptiste said she often feels torn between returning to school and continuing to work in the field she adores.

“I sometimes contemplate going back and finishing my degree, which many of my residents may not know about,” she said. “But I fell in love with this industry, so now I’m here, and am really enjoying it.”

Entering her second year at Parkview Condominiums, Jean-Baptiste said she enjoys working at the 505 N. McClurg building because of her supportive coworkers and friendly tenants, who have created a welcoming atmosphere.

“Everyone here has really embraced me,” Jean-Baptiste said. “Coming from a security background, everything is more personable here; getting to react with the tenants presents a warmer work environment.”

After beginning her career in security for commercial high-rises at 21 years old, Jean-Baptiste followed in her father’s footsteps by landing a job in the service industry.

“There’s a lot of male and [female] interaction in the security force,” Jean-Baptiste said. “But coming into this industry, where it’s mostly male, was challenging.”

The oldest of six siblings, Jean-Baptiste enjoys family, Star Trek, Marvel comics and movies, astronomy and traveling the world. A dream of hers to become a stewardess in order to explore the globe.

“One thing people might find interesting about me is that I love old Hollywood movies, like Sabrina (the original), Bringing up Baby with Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant, as well as other old classic movies of that genre,” she said.

To nominate your favorite doorperson, email info@chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why they should be the doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.