Cheryl L. Coan writes a letter of recommendation for Michael Naumann for the Spirit of Ignatius Award. She describes Michael as an exemplary student who is constantly seeking knowledge outside the classroom. He engages thoughtfully with course readings and class discussions, sharing his perspectives and experiences with grace. Michael respects others' opinions and builds on their insights. As an instructor, Coan believes Michael lives according to a personal mission statement that guides his continuous learning and growth. She strongly recommends Michael for this award as he embodies the qualities every teacher hopes to instill in graduates.

1. Cheryl L. Coan, M.A.
College of Professional Studies
1212 W. Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53201
Karen Wrench
College of Professional Studies
1212 W. Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53201
Dear Karen,
I am honored to be writing this letter to recommend Michael Naumann for the Spirit of Ignatius
Award. It is rare that a student like Michael comes along. Michael is the epitome of a lifelong
learner. He is constantly seeking information, engaging in conversation, and adding to his
knowledge base, outside of what is assigned in the classroom. What is most impressive about
Michael as a student and human being is that when you meet him you instantly are aware of
his integrity and his compassion.
Michael is currently in my ORLE 135 -The Culturally Diverse Organization course. He has given a
fair and even-handed assessment of the readings and issues, even sharing his personal
experience directly related to one of the readings. This personal experience was a difficult one
to share, but Michael did it with grace. He is a model of equitable treatment and critical thinking
that all students would do well to follow.
As I said earlier, as a student Michael is exemplary. He not only engages the texts for the class,
but goes about and beyond and does additional reading to broaden the scope of the topic. His
writing is near flawless and would be an excellent addition to our graduate program should he
choose to go on. His 3.9 GPA is reflective of his assessable work, but I feel there is much more
learning going on for Michael than is assessable by our built-in measures.
It is evident in the classroom that other students respect Michael's opinions and insights. His
grace in the classroom is always apparent since he solicits opinions and engages other students
in conversation. He consistently acknowledges other's contributions and builds off their remarks.
It is rare to see someone so welcoming and humble in conversations. Mike is a true leader in
the classroom.
Michael has impressed me with his ability to set goals in his life and achieve them. He lives by
his personal mission statement, something few of us have written to guide our lives. I believe
that this personal mission statement is a large part of what keeps Mike learning and growing.
And finally, I do not know a student past or present who deserves this award more than
Michael. He is what every teacher at CPS hopes our graduates will be.
Sincerely,
ClwiytCoan