December 18, 2005

To Whom it May Concern:

It is a pleasure to recommend Mr. Russell Gilbert as animation developer or graphic designer.

I have known Mr. Russell Gilbert for almost two years, as his professor in three intensive computer courses (totaling 510 hours) and as a supervisor in one internship (totaling 120 hours). He has distinguished himself among a large group of individuals for his dedication, creativity, and technical genius. I do use this word intentionally.

Mr. Gilbert is the top student I've had in years. He is a dynamic individual, self-directed and competent with all aspects of digital technology. He enjoys a technical challenge. A specific example is his final project in the Computer Animation for the Web course; he produced one of the finest multimedia websites I've seen. Mr. Gilbert designed the large, multifaceted project using Studio MX 2004 from conception to completion, working with a demanding client and a large amount of data. Another example is his internship project using advanced computer animation with FLASH; he created a series of professional animations for an interactive training program for Fire Training Solutions. This was a complex project with timeline pressure. Mr. Gilbert is outstanding in his ability to work with others with humor and productivity. He is highly motivated and works best independently, as well. Mr. Gilbert is a hard worker who produces excellent results.

Mr. Gilbert is exceptional in his ability to create elegant solutions, top-quality graphics, and sophisticated code. He enjoys problem-solving and making his work first quality. He is result-oriented and does more than is required in every instance.

In each digital design project, Mr. Gilbert has had a creative vision he wanted to realize. He has researched the online reference materials until he found the appropriate technical methods. His subsequent follow-through motivated his classmates. When I assigned one project, he always turned in several, each with original aspects.

His classmates looked to him for leadership and they were right to do so. Mr. Gilbert always took the initiative to help the other students. He has a knack for taking an intricate technical process and breaking it down into do-able steps. He can describe these complicated techniques in a simple and friendly way. His low-key and humorous nature made him a favorite with all who work with him. I have asked him to be a guest lecturer several times in my classes. Rusty is a natural with both learning and teaching.

He enjoys working with people and computers. I would certainly hire him if I had a position available. Mr. Russell Gilbert will be an asset to any organization.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Canney Lopez
Professor, Web Design and Development
Computer Information Systems
School of Business and Information Systems