Doorperson of the Month: Jean R. Dunord, The Grand Ohio

Jean R. Dunord’s 22-year tenure as a door staff member at The Grand

Ohio, 211 E. Ohio St., in Streeterville is the latest chapter in a fascinating life.

Born in Haiti, Dunord arrived in the U.S. nearly 30 years ago and chose to settle in Chicago because of family. He speaks four languages: French, Creole, Spanish and English.

Dunord’s mission and motto have always been “providing the best customer service for the residents at The Grand Ohio—and helping with a bit of French.” Many of the building’s residents studied French as a second language and take the opportunity to brush up on their conversational skills by chatting with Dunord.

The two biggest changes Dunord has seen during his time at The Grand Ohio are pandemic-related: check-ins for the building’s food deliveries and packages must now be handled in a pandemic-safe way.

“So far, so good,” he said of keeping residents and staff members safe.

One major issue has been eradicated at The Grand Ohio in the last few years: A parking garage has been built at the back of the building. Prior to the garage, the building was subject to Chicago’s cold snaps making their

way inside. Now, residents can easily access the parking garage with their vehicles and avoid winter weather when entering the building.

Dunord remains happy with his tenure at The Grand Ohio and is proud of being an American citizen after receiving his GED and studying at both Triton College and DePaul University. He currently resides in Evanston with his wife and family.

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.