January 2, 2015

Region VIII Amerind Risk Management Corporation

Scholarship Fund Services
Sir/Madam,
It is with genuine pleasure that I recommend Fort Lewis College student Courtney Lastiyano for
the Amerind Risk Management Corporation Scholarship. During the three semesters that I have
known Ms. Lastiyano, I have been her professor for Literacy and Arts Integration and Science
for Educators. Recently, in the Fall 2014 term, Ms. Lastiyano and her father presented a beautiful
lesson to students in one of my courses that integrated storytelling, music, and visual art in the
Zuni tradition. What a remarkably talented and versatile young woman!
Both the classroom and the community at large benefit from Ms. Lastiyanos strong sense of
home and connection to Zuni. From her internship with Smithsonian Institutes Childrens
Activity Center to volunteer storytelling and art workshops for Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad,
Ms. Lastiyanos reach as a Zuni ambassador is most impressive. Her gift as an educator isnt
limited to cultural activities however; she is a volunteer coach for First and Second Grade
basketball and soccer, a student assistant for the Campbell Center Preschool, and a student aide
for First and Second Grades at Park Elementary in Durango. As a preservice teacher, Ms.
Lastiyanos reputation is solid - a responsible and strong teacher candidate. As a person, Ms.
Lastiyano reputation is stellar - she brightens the room with enthusiasm and energy!
Please feel free to contact me if needed. I am most confident that a scholarship awarded to
Courtney Lastiyano would be well invested!
Sincerely yours,
Kay Phelps, EdD
Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
Fort Lewis College
Durango, CO 81301
khphelps@fortlewis.edu
(970) 759-3270