Steven Olberg demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills as a supervisor at Alta/Westwood College from 2011 to 2012. He managed multiple departments effectively and brought people together collaboratively. Olberg also supported the campus librarian and taught guest lectures that provided students with a new perspective on research. Outside of work, Olberg worked patiently with the librarian to prepare his book for publication. The librarian gives Olberg her highest recommendation and respect for his inspiring leadership, passion for teaching, and dedication to understanding differences.

1. April 3, 2015
To Whom It May Concern:
It has been my privilege to know Dr. Steven Olberg. We worked together directly at Alta / Westwood
College from 6-2011 to 9-2012. I had the opportunity to work with Steven as my supervisor and as a
colleague while assisting in the final editing stages of his book, “The Political Graffiti on the West
Bank Wall in Israel / Palestine” for publication with Edwin Mellen Press. Allow me to state some
professional and personal qualities that I have seen in the time that I have known him.
While at Alta / Westwood College, Steven demonstrated a high level of communication skills and
practiced an outstanding leadership philosophy while managing a team of program directors, faculty
members, instructors, and campus staff. His administrative abilities were well reflected while
managing deadlines and working within every department bringing people together to collaborate
and share ideas while exceedingly meeting the needs of the college. Steven showed the greatest
respect for my profession as the campus Librarian and supported my request to be considered as an
adjunct instructor. I had the opportunity to attend various meetings and see Steven in action. For
example, Steven presented in-services meetings for faculty with group activities to encourage and
explore new critical thinking techniques. He offered interesting scenarios to share new problem-
solving skills incorporating hands-on projects. He taught lessons to demonstrate creative and
innovative ways to inspire students to learn. At the end of one of the powerful leadership meetings,
Steven opened the agenda to discuss possibly adopting a school Platypus mascot, an image which
was on the front of one of the handouts. Steven invited faculty to share other mascot suggestions,
reminding us that school spirit and humor are important needs as well!
On two other separate occasions during fall and spring terms, Steven took the time to come into my
research methodology classes and share his experiences gathering information about Israel and
Palestine with my students, which gave a new dimension to research. His passion for teaching,
professional sensitivity, and high integrity were reflected in all of his actions.
Outside of Alta / Westwood College, I worked with Steven on proofing and formatting his book prior
to publication. His research interests, willingness to share his ideas, and patience have earned my
greatest respect. His compassion for all people and dedication to understanding differences are
admirable and inspiring.
I continue to share ideas and correspondence with Steven, and I give you my full support and
recommendation for him for academic, administrative, and professional positions. He is truly an
inspiring leader, and a valuable professional in the field of education. If you have any questions of
me, please feel free to email or call me.
Sincerely,
Julie Klauss, MLIS
Access Librarian, Marvin Buckles Library
Red Rocks Community College
P.O. Box 14, 13300 West Sixth Avenue
Lakewood, Colorado 80228-1255
(303) 914-6745 / julie.klauss@rrcc.edu