Employment History:

Published Works:

Public Speaking Experience:

Why She is an Expert:
I am always trying my best.

Best Advice:
Make sure you have enough time to prepare your tours and make yourself available for the programs.

Passionate about:
My interests; I can always better myself.

Biography Excerpt:
Jean L. Abounader has made a full-time job out of doing something she loves — serving others. For 40 years, she has volunteered for the Missouri Botanical Garden, the nation’s oldest botanical garden still open to the public and a National Historic Landmark founded in 1859. Located in St. Louis, Mo., it offers both group and private tours of the 79 acres of gardens it houses, including the children’s garden and 14-acre Japanese garden. Mrs. Abounader has transformed her gardening hobby into a way to help others explore nature. She recently received a 40-year pin in recognition of all her years of service. In addition to her time spent at the Missouri Botanical Garden, she explores another of her passions — art — as a docent for the Saint Louis Art Museum.

     

Cambridge Who's Who: What lessons have you learned as a professional in your field for the past 40 years?  
MRS. JEAN L ABOUNADER :  Never overestimate a possibility.

Who have been your mentors or people who have greatly influenced you?
My stepfather, Raymond Mattingly, because he went out of his way to make sure that I had a good education and partook of every opportunity that would come along. He set an example for me. When I was growing up he helped me stand up and become a public speaker. My mother, Loretta, was a very beautiful and gracious woman.

What is your favorite or least favorite work-related task to do and why?
Seeing the art is my favorite.