1. July 24, 2014
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
I had the pleasureof workingwith Melis Hornston duringher 2 month assignmentto
USAID/WestAfrica, here in Accra, Ghana. Ms. Hornston was a studentsummer hire in the
Regional ExecutiveOffice where I am currently the acting director.
It is remarkablehow much Ms. Hornston accomplished duringher time in REXO. Butas
importantly, the manner in which she assimilated in this multi-culturalsetting was equally
impressive. Ms. Hornston endeared herself to all membersof the office, and set herself
apart from other 'obronis' (foreigners)by conversing in Twi, the local dialect most spoken
in Accra. It demonstrated a special sensitivity to Ghana and its peoplethat is frequently
lacking among obrunis.
On the work front, Ms. Hornston wasprolific. She became an outstanding'switch-hitter'
smoothly transitioningfrom updatingthe Mission'sorganizationalcharts, to helping with
internationalrecruitment, to refiningStandard OperatingProceduresfor USAID'srecently
established satellite office in northern Ghana, to organizinga lunchfor all summer hires
hosted by the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, or helping with awardsto local staff.
Ms. Hornston'swritwas less expansivethan what she eventually accomplished. She
sought out work and the office happily accommodated her exuberanceand proven ability
to get the job done. This quality will hold Ms. Hornston in very good stead as she furthers
her career. Whatever direction she chooses to go, I am confidentshe will excel. I, along
with my REXO colleagues, have greatly enjoyed workingwith MelisHornston. She willbe
greatly missed.
John P. Peevey
Acting Supervisory ExecutiveOfficer
USAID/WestAfrica
Accra, Ghana