November 3", 2017
Dr. Matthew H, Bakke
Gallaudet University
Sorenson Language and Communication Center 3118
Dear Dr. Bakke,
Ihave been asked by Dr. Larry Medwetsky, to write a letter in support of his tenure at Gallaudet
University. As a 2017 graduate of Gallaudet’s MS program in Speech Language Pathology, I am
delighted to do so.
| first met Dr. Medwetsky when, as a Speech Language Pathology graduate candidate at
Gallaudet University, I had the opportunity to take his pediatric aural rehabilitation course in the
summer of 2016, His class was one that made me realize the benefit of having chosen to attend
Gallaudet University for my graduate degree, for several reasons. First, his engaging seminar
teaching style demonstrated his knowledge of the field; he engaged students in frank and open
discussion, while encouraging questions and opinions. Next, he easily incorporated his clinical
experience and knowledge of the literature in discussion of theoretical constructs. He is able to
share information gleaned from his experience as a practicing Audiologist through practical
examples, to demonstrate how his background has informed his perspective and understanding of
the field. Finally, Dr. Medwetsky has a remarkable ability to discuss technical concepts in
professional terms that we would be expected to use amongst colleagues, or conversational
terms, as we would need to use when counseling parents. His modeling of the registers for
sharing professional knowledge requires a rich understanding of the subject matter, as well as
insight into human nature, and it was an invaluable aspect of his class.
However, in addition to his impressive expertise in the field of audiology, Dr. Medwetsky
proved he was a fair and conscientious department chair. He took the time to listen to concems
and opinions from students. In difficult situations, he considered problems from all perspectives,
and he refrained from making rash conclusions. The students in my program observed him
consistently make unbiased and fair decisions, ultimately, it seemed to us, making the best
decisions for the department as a whole.In conclusion, I feel that Dr. Medwetsky would be an excellent choice for tenure at Gallaudet
University. From my perspective as a former student, he exhibits a passion for, and
understanding of, the field of audiology, and demonstrates excellence in relating to others in the
academic setting. It is because of his strong positive influence on the department that I am able to
say I am very satisfied with my Gallaudet University experience.
Sincerely,
E nin Fouman MS CF-SLP
Erin Foreman, M.S. CF-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
Fairfax County Public Schools