May I brag a bit? (Long, I'll admit)

I wanted to share the recommendation letter my daughter received for admission to the grad program at her university. Words cannot describe how proud I am of my children.

Tiffany (redacted) has requested that I write this letter in support of her admission to graduate school in the College of Education at Roosevelt University and I am delighted to do so. As director of the St. Clair Drake Center for African and African American studies here at Roosevelt University, I have had the pleasure of knowing Tiffany for the last five years. Over this period I have been both her teacher and mentor.

My first interaction with Tiffany was as her teacher in a course on the African American male. It was at this time that I first noticed her strong intellect and her determined commitment to social justice. She was articulate and passionate about the issues faced by black males, but she was also analytic in her assessment of these challenges and possible solutions. Tiffany’s performance in my classes was exemplary. She has able to demonstrate a strong research agenda and see it through to completion.

It is important to note that while Tiffany was an excellent student, she did not achieve this by sacrificing all other activities. She was employed as a Counselor/Advocate for Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC), a not-for-profit organization in Chicago. Her work in this capacity was further proof of her passion and commitment to social justice.

After Tiffany completed her undergraduate degree, I have been involved in a mentoring relationship with her. We have discussed possible avenues where her intellect and passions could be given life. She has carefully examined a number of career options, finally deciding on education. Both personally and professionally, I am very pleased that Tiffany has chosen to enter a field for which I feel she is overwhelmingly suited.

I feel confident that Tiffany will exhibit the same passion and intellectual drive that served her so well in her undergraduate studies. However, before I close this recommendation, it would be unfair to leave you with the impression that Tiffany is a two dimensional character consumed by her passion for social justice and her intellectual curiosity. That would be unfair and inaccurate. As I think about Tiffany, one of the main qualities that she brings is a solid sense of humor and the ability to laugh at herself. She takes her work very seriously, but not herself. I truly believe that this ability to laugh is a critical ally as one seeks to help and educate others. In short, she will excel in your program.

It is for these reasons that I offer the highest recommendation for Tiffany, without reservation. If you have any questions regarding this recommendation, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,

Albert L. Bennett
Harold Washington Professor of Public Policy and
Professor of Education
Director of the St. Clair Drake Center for African and African-American Studies

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