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e couldn’t have asked for better weather on that Monday in April when we scheduled our Women’s Issue photo shoot. It was sunny and 75 degrees – and a week before the pollen took over – at the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Photographer John Michael Simpson had scoped out pockets of greenery and blooming flowers. I was armed with a case of water and an almost comically oversized sun hat while on light reflector duty, assisting John Michael. Over the course of the day, each woman showed up for her moment in the sun. It’s always a feat to pinpoint who to feature in this annual issue. There are just so many who deserve a spotlight for all they do for our towns. This year, I knew at least one woman we had to reach out to and learn more about. A few months ago, I received a nomination email from Allie Mendelsohn praising her friend Jean McDonald. Allie signed off with, “I have barely even scraped the surface of who she is and how much she gives and has given to our community, but it is my hope that you will contact her and find out for yourself what a treasure she is.” That day at the photo shoot, I finally found myself in the presence of Jean, the last scheduled subject. She was warm and had us laughing as John Michael rushed to capture her at closing time. You’ll find Allie’s deeply personal tribute to Jean on page 56. And, although I know it will only make my job harder next year, I encourage you to send me an email with your nominations of some amazing Orange County women. Until then, I invite you to learn more about Jean, along with 14 other incredible women, starting on page 44. CHM
T HE COVER P h o to by J o h n Mic ha el Sim pson 6
chapelhillmagazine.com
May/June 2021