July 20, 2018

To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Mina Blyly-Strauss for several years, first as a student in the Special Education
Program, the Masters in Differentiated Learning, and as an instructor in the Hmong Culture and
Language Program. She is an organized, optimistic, and focused teacher. She came to our program
to complete her licensure in Special Education Learning Disabilities, and later to assist with
students from all over the world in the Hmong Culture and Language Program sponsored Building
Cultural Bridges Camp for our summer and year around program.

She exhibits an excellent work ethic, is persistent, and focused on completing goals. Through the
years, she has consistently exhibited her excellent teaching and mentoring skills, considering
student’s achievement and emotional and behavioral needs as well as encouraging them in both
English and their heritage languages.

Most recently, Mina has pursued her Doctoral Degree at the University of Minnesota, and will
defend her dissertation and complete her degree soon. Through this time she has worked in special
education, using her multiple licenses in that field. She is an amazing teacher, strong student
advocate and seeks to help the under-served population with her impressive knowledge and skills.

Mina has a good sense of humor and is a joyful, thoughtful person who takes responsibilities
seriously and meets deadlines in a timely manner. I have also observed her in collegial conversations
with persons from many different countries. She is at ease in presenting herself in a non-
threatening and caring manner. I am impressed with how she integrates into all situations and
builds strong working relationships.

In summary, Mina is focused on goals consistent with being a successful professional, and seeks to
help others within that framework. I feel confident in recommending her as an experienced teacher
in the Special Education field. She is well qualified, and will be a huge asset to students, staff, and
the community she serves.

If you have any questions, please contact me by office phone 651-603-6188, cell phone 651-238-
7570 or through e-mail baas@csp.edu .

Sincerely,

Dr. Sally A. Baas, Professor & Director

Southeast Asian Teacher Licensure Program
Hmong Culture and Language Program
College of Education

Concordia University, St. Paul 1282 Concordia Avenue St. Paul, MN 55104