Raymond Wallace still seems surprised to be named doorperson of the month. “I’d like to thank the resident who nominated me—I am truly humbled,” he says.
Raymond briefly hands the desk over to Terrence, the second doorperson on duty, and leads the way across the marble-filled lobby to the building’s additional doorperson station.
“Two doorpeople work in tandem on each shift,” he explains. “That’s why there are two desks.”
It’s a rare quiet moment inside the lobby of 55 E. Erie St., a condominium tower completed in 2004. “All the activity tends to erupt at the same time,” Raymond says. “I’m glad there are two of us on duty.”
Raymond describes the River North building’s amenities with enthusiasm, saying, “There’s a super cool pool, gym, and a rentable social lounge.”
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Raymond previously spent a decade in a similar role at a building in Hyde Park. His security company transferred him to 55 E. Erie about a year and a half ago. “I’m lucky to have landed here,” he says. “The residents here are amazing, generous people.”
His daily responsibilities include logging guests, coordinating with multiple contractors, and conducting foot patrols for security. Package deliveries are handled by the staff of a separate package room; however, Raymond and his colleagues assist with grocery drop-offs. “We call residents when their groceries arrive—or take them up if they ask.”
Raymond grew up an only child, but now enjoys a large extended family that includes several sisters. For Mother’s Day, he plans to take his mother to church and brunch.
Raymond Wallace is a Cubs fan, but also follows the Chicago Bulls. With speculation swirling about potential coaching changes, he reflects on former Chicago Bull Steve Kerr. “It’d probably take too much money to get Kerr back to Chicago,” he says, “but I sure enjoyed watching him play back in the day.”
In his free time, he enjoys “old-school puzzles.” He’s currently working on a 4,000‑piece world map. “No online puzzles, or those numbered pieces they have nowadays,” he says with a laugh.
What he loves most about his job is simple: the people. “The residents here are so cool,” Raymond says. Judging by his nomination, the feeling is mutual.
To nominate your favorite doorperson, email [email protected] with their name and why they should be Doorperson of the Month. Winners receive a $25 Mariano’s gift card.