April 6, 2014

Student Development Administration (SDA) Program Portfolio Review Committee Seattle University, College of Education 901 12th Ave Seattle, WA 98122 Dear Portfolio Review Committee, It is with great honor and excitement that I write this letter of promise for Katie Gast. She is a committed and motivational member of the student development community at Seattle University that has made lasting impressions on her colleagues, peers, and faculty. My first encounter with Katie occurred during fall of 2013 in a social justice course. Instantly, her interest and investment in issues of justice, equity, and access arose as she actively contributed to the class. Katie not only demonstrated a desire to build her multicultural awareness and knowledge but also revealed a commitment to transforming such learning into skills applicable to her work and personal life. As a compassionate colleague and peer, I am humbled by Katies continues endeavors to grow as a ally to communities of color, LGBTQ communities, and other marginalized populations.

Throughout our time together in the SDA program, Katies professional integrity and leadership have shined through. In discussions about her graduate assistantship, we have strategized ways to ensure her professional goals are being met while her professional duties are still being accomplished. These discussions not only revealed her commitment to doing efficient and impactful work but also illustrated her commitment to her own personal growth as a student affairs professional. Eager to go above and beyond in the work she does and academic assignments she produces, Katie constantly challenges herself to be a reflective leader that uses the knowledge gained in the classroom to inform her professional practice and research. One example is her master of arts project. She developed a project that demonstrated her knowledge and engagement with research methods and techniques gathered in our SDA 595 course. She then went on to implement a research project that investigated the impacts of mentorship programs at a community college. She proactively developed a project that would target the audience of students she aspires to work withunderserved students. This project and her commitment to being a leader for others is commendable. There is no doubt in my mind that Katies professional identity is that of a leader in the field of student affairs. A leader moves beyond visions and actions; they reflect on how their contributions impact society and communities. Katie is this leader. She recognizes the role of envisioning a better tomorrow and taking actions to create more just environments for all students. She also makes time to reflect on her contributions so that she continues to grow as a professional, colleague, student, and friend. One simple yet impactful example is the role she has played in my own professional and academic development. Katie offered to help me brainstorm and edit my personal statements for doctoral programs. Upon many conversations about my hopes for these statements, I looked to her for support and inspiration to complete these life-changing documents. She confidently stood by my side encouraging me to
OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS
901 12th Avenue P.O. Box 222000 Student Center 320 Seattle, WA 98122-1090 www.seattleu.edu Tel: (206) 296.6070 Fax: (206) 296.6073

authentically articulate who I was and why I decided to move forward in this process. She went beyond reading my statements; she helped me reflect on my goals, think critically about the ways I was going to achieving such aspirations, and put them into action. From this experience, I learned that Katie has a fierce and vibrant spirit that empowers those around her to be the best people they can be. She demonstrates courageous leadership, commitment, and passion everyday. For this and all the various deserving words I have shared above, I write this letter of promise with confidence that Katie Gast will enhance the spirit, capacity, and legacy of our work as student affairs professionals. With my sincerest respect,

Victoria Navarro Benavides M.A. Candidate, Student Development Administration |Seattle University Program Coordinator with Office of Multicultural Affairs | Seattle University Graduate Intern with International Student Center | Seattle University Work: 206-296-6373 | Email: benavide@seattleu.edu

OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS

901 12th Avenue P.O. Box 222000 Student Center 320 Seattle, WA 98122-1090 www.seattleu.edu Tel: (206) 296.6070 Fax: (206) 296.6073

8. Communicating effectively in speech and in writing Dear SDA Portfolio Committee,

3. Exhibiting professional integrity and ethical leadership in professional practice

9. Understanding issues surrounding law, policy, finance and governance, and

OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS

901 12th Avenue P.O. Box 222000 Student Center 320 Seattle, WA 98122-1090 www.seattleu.edu Tel: (206) 296.6070 Fax: (206) 296.6073