To Whom It May Concern:

Brian’s influence on my life goes beyond any classroom education. He helped chisel distinct form into my professional, spiritual and social life.

Like many of Brian’s students, I shudder from memories of sleep depravity, 20-page papers, and tears of frustration. However, thanks to Brian’s high demand for excellence in the classroom, impressing employers with a range of knowledge and abilities has been easy. After graduation in 1998, I found myself over prepared for the real world.

My current job title is Web Designer/Graphic Designer, but my workplace requires a wider range of responsibility. Copywriters and the public relations department frequent my desk with questions regarding grammar, AP Style and word brainstorms. Outside of the office, I have written, directed, and produced a handful of short films. I attribute much of my office and personal successes to Brian’s push for adaptability and cross- spectral knowledge.

Many people have heard stories of Brian’s classroom demeanor and high expecta-
tions; few have heard of his compassionate nature. Despite being an Education Major at the time, Brian offered his home to me when I was awarded a summer internship at The Black Mountain News. After expressing concern to Brian about affording summer housing, he said, “Don’t worry about anything. You will take this internship. Lissa and I want you to stay at our house this summer.”

There are few things more humbling than staying two months in a professor’s home. I ate dinners with the Fullers, heard Brian singing a cappella to the kids after sitting in on their devotions and grew to admire Brian’s wife, Lissa, through discussions and asking for advice. Brian’s family life became a model of Christian fatherhood for me.

As I pursue my dream to create, write and produce films, I turn to Brian for his critical opinion. To Brian, his success is his students’ successes, individuals who have since become his closest friends. Brian is an inclusive and dynamic teacher, who remains to be a role model of consistent Christianity.  It is with honor, that I give this recommendation.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Isaac Witteveen, 
Web Designer/Graphic Designer
The Merchandise Mart, Chicago, IL