Steve Kerrn – A Passion for History
Throughout his career as a CPA and financial analyst, Stephen Kern (Steve) nurtured a passion for history. When the opportunity for early retirement arose and Steve was contemplating his future, he discovered the Friends of the Cabildo.
“I’ve always been drawn to history,” explains Steve, a native of Pittsburgh. “My family even suggested I become a tour guide.”
With retirement on the horizon, Steve and his wife, a New Orleans native, pondered their next steps. The vibrant history and rich culture of New Orleans beckoned, making it an irresistible choice for their new chapter. Steve joined the Friends of the Cabildo tour guide program in 2016, embracing the opportunity to share his passion for history with others.
“I spent most of my career in the oil and gas industry,” saysSteve. “If I had not gone into the accounting profession, I probably would have been a teacher.”
After spending years giving tours in the French Quarter, Steve now focuses much of his time on mentoring tour guide classes. Every year, Steve and his wife spend the hot New Orleans summer months at their lake house in the mountains east of Pittsburgh. Being a tour guide mentor allows the flexibility to volunteer with the Friends of the Cabildo, while also enjoying travel.
“I still pop in for tours when I can,” saysSteve. Due to the extensive training received from the Friends of the Cabildo “Giving a tour is like riding a bike, you never forget.”
With grandchildren and children located throughout the country, Steve loves the flexibility that the Friends of the Cabildo offers him. He enjoys volunteering but also the ability to spend time with his family.
“The real beauty of the Friends of the Cabildo is the people,” explainsSteve. “You get to meet people from all over the world – from different cultures and communities. It’s wonderful.”