This is a letter of recommendation from Nancy Andress, educational consultant for the Capital Area School Development Association (CASDA) in Albany, NY

1. May 3, 2010
Dear Personnel Administrator:
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Julia Lefkovits who is a candidate for
the position of Admissions Officer at The Culinary Institute. I have worked at the Capital Area
School Development Association (CASDA) with Julia for two years and have been continually
impressed with her leadership, creativity, initiative and knowledge. As a former Assistant
Superintendent of Schools with 38 years of experience in education, I can attest to the
expertise Julia would bring to a higher education setting. I highly recommend her.
CASDA is the professional development arm of the State University of New York at Albany. The
organization works closely with the university linking their research with professional
development in schools. Julia is a vital member of this office team. Since January 2008 she has
served as the Scholarship Program Coordinator at CASDA. She serves as Project Director for the
Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship. She handles applications from 2,800 students, evaluates
their credentials and manages the coordination of over 60 members of the statewide selection
committee. She is in daily contact with schools, students and universities, particularly financial
aid offices. She works with the New York Lottery, the Governor’s office and handles the
electronic transfer of student winners’ information to the Higher Education Services
Corporation for over 7,000 prior scholarships.
Julia has strong organizational and technology skills. Her problem solving skills are exceptional.
She has served as an events facilitator for professional groups throughout the Capital District
which included planning, registration, material preparation, workshop organization and
evaluation. Julia is a team member who works on many projects for the Associate and Assistant
Directors of CASDA. She has certainly been a great help to me.
No mention of Julia would be complete without mentioning her strong communication and
interpersonal skills. She is an empathetic listener who takes times with others. Her manner is
open, warm and genuine. Her artistic abilities show in her creative approach to work,
innovative ideas and positive attitude. She would be an outstanding member of the Culinary
Institute Admissions Staff. It has been a personal and professional pleasure to work with Julia.
Sincerely,
Nancy Andress, CASDA Educational Consultant nandress@uamail.albany.edu