To Whom It May Concern:
I have been asked to write a recommendation of Harrison Keely regarding his abilities as a journalist and his character as a person. I am honored to do so.
I have known Harrison for many years, first as a young boy growing up in our community and a student at Clay County schools, where my daughter also attended. During those years, I observed that he was a quiet, well mannered student, friendly and serious about his academic work. He also was involved in numerous school and church activities. The year before he decided to run for president of his high school, he made it a practice of arriving at school early, where he held open the entrance door and greeted students as they came in. He won easily. He also photographed many school activities, including sports.
Harrison Keely is a superb young journalist. He is technically savvy, insatiably curious, and passionate about achieving excellence. In my 21 years as a newspaper publisher, I can truthfully say, he is the most energetic and enterprising young news gatherer and layout designer that I’ve come across. For one so young, his overall productivity is simply amazing.
During the three months that he worked at our newspapers last summer, he became immersed in the community, searching out newsworthy stories, thoroughly sourcing them and writing and illustrating them in a clear and concise way. His leads were often innovative. His story line flowed smoothly with sufficient interesting details. In addition, he wrote humorous columns for our paper as well as personal profiles and movie reviews.
Throughout it all, Harrison demonstrated considerable initiative with a minimum of guidance. He stayed with each assignment until it had been completely fleshed out. He also took his role as a reporter seriously. He conducted numerous interviews, not aggressively nor in a confrontational manner, but by being sensitively persistent.
For about a month over the Christmas holidays, Harrison again worked for our news group. This time at another newspaper, where I asked him to redesign and modernize what had become a stodgy publication. Not surprisingly, he again did an outstanding job. What I especially like about him is that he is not afraid to take risks. He is in the process of developing a style of his own. He is his own person, thoughtful, looking for ways of getting the job done right and achieving excellence.
Harrison Keely has a knack for the newspaper craft, whether in newsprint or on the web. He is resourceful, resolute and absolutely trustworthy. From everything I know about him, I can highly recommend him to your employment and assure you that you will not be disappointed.
Sincerely yours,
Frank Bradley
