October  22,  2015          To  Whom  It  May  Concern:      As  Drake  University’s  Head  Women’s  Basketball  Coach,  I  am  writing  to  you  in  support  of  Cara  Lutes  and  her   determination   and  desire   to   obtain   a   teaching   job   in  Des  Moines   Public   Schools.   I   had   the  privilege  of  coaching  Cara  for  three  years  at  the  Division  One  Level.      Throughout   Cara’s   career   in   the   Drake   Women’s   Basketball   program,   Cara   exhibited   an  uncompromising  dedication  to  work  hard,  demonstrate  empathy,  creatively  problem  solve,  genuinely  afPirm   others,   welcome   feedback,   and   continually   learn.   Cara   has   an   ability   to   connect   and  communicate   with   people   from   varied   backgrounds—whether   her   teammates,   coaching   staff,  opponents,  boosters,  young  fans,  or  members  of  the  community.  Cara  has  been  devoted  to  investment  in   Des   Moines   as   a   city   through   volunteerism   and   inviting   teammates   to   engage   more   deeply   in  volunteerism.  She  upholds  integrity  in  her  everyday  life  and  the  task  at  hand.  Cara  embodies  a  spirit  that  cares  for  people,  supports  people,  and  sustains  and  improves  an  environment.      Cara  is  truly  one  of  the  best  student-­‐athletes  I  have  ever  been  around.  Her  positivity  radiates  and  is  contagious  to  all.  She  is  someone  that  will  forever  leave  a  lasting  impression.  She  will  be  an  incredible  teacher,  coach  and  mentor  to  so  many  young  people.  She  has  truly  found  her  passion  in  teaching.      Cara   is   an   enthusiastic,   positive,   and   loyal   investor   in   people   and   places.   This   characteristic  would  dePinitely   benePit   Des  Moines   Public   Schools,   your   students,   staff,   and   families.   I   encourage   you   to  contact  me  to  further  discuss  why  Cara  is  a  strong,  coachable,  and  conPident  candidate.  Cara  is  truly  the  best!    Sincerely,                Jennie  Baranczyk    Drake  University’s  Head  Women’s  Basketball  Coach  Jennie.baranczyk@drake.edu  515-­‐344-­‐8118