76 Shetland Way

Kanata, ON K2M 1S7

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January 30, 2015-01-30
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Dear Sir or Madam:
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I am very pleased to provide a letter of reference for Taryn McKenna, a student at the
Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa who is applying for the Dr. William Crossan
Scholarship.

As I am currently teaching the Religious Education course for the Senior Division at the
Faculty of Education, I have had the pleasure of working with Taryn and the other
students who plan to teach senior level religion classes. In my interaction with Taryn, I
have come to appreciate Taryns commitment to Catholic education in a very visible and
concrete manner. In our sessions, Taryn has demonstrated her deep and personal faith
life, actively engaged in class activities and provided insightful contributions to class
discussions. In the prayer service she developed, she demonstrated her musical talents
and led the class in a very meaningful reflection, mediation, and discussion.

In Taryn, I see the future of Catholic education. Taryn is a product of the Catholic school
system in Ontario. She actively developed her leadership and faith life at St. Thomas
Aquinas High School in Oakville. She actively participated in the school chaplaincy
team, shared her musical gifts at school masses and led morning prayers. As a true
leader, she was recognized by both staff and students in being chosen valedictorian of her
graduation class, receiving the RJ McCarthy award for leadership and receiving the top
academic achievement in the Grade 12 Religion class. Taryn was a true Catholic leader
in her high school community.

In addition, Taryn was a student teacher at Holy Trinity Catholic High School in Ottawa,
where I had been the Religion Department Head prior to my retirement in 2012. In
speaking to my former colleagues in the department, they stated how impressed they
were with Taryns teaching and contributions. She actively participated with the
sacraments during the Advent season. In addition, she was a valuable supervisor during
the World Religions field trip. Taryn certainly left a good impression with my former
colleagues.

Taryn embodies what is needed to be a Catholic Educator in our Catholic school system.
She is bright, articulate, committed to excellence and gospel values and willing to take on
leadership opportunities. From what I have observed in class, she is easily approachable
and connects well with fellow students. I am certain that these qualities will enable her to

develop a good rapport with staff and students in any school setting. Personally, I would
have blessed to have such as wonderful young teacher teaching religion in my
department.

I hope that you will give serious consideration to granting Taryn the Dr. William Crossan
Scholarship.

Please feel free to contact me if you require further information at

Rosamaria.kelly@ocsb.ca or 613 591 3518.

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Yours truly,
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Rosamaria Kelly
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