RE: Recommendation of Mr. Robert Guercio for Employment Dear Maam/Sir: I am pleased to offer my recommendation for Mr.

Robert Guercio for employment. As a professor of architecture at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, my research and teaching focuses on service-learning, communityoutreach, and sustainable design through student develop/design/build projects. In 2008 our university was selected as one of only 20 universities from around the world to compete in the 2009 Solar Decathlon. The Decathlon is a competition sponsored every two years by the Department of Energy where student teams from the 20 schools design, build, and transport to Washington DC (or to other sites) their 800 square foot solar-powered home to compete in a series of 10 events. We won first place in Market-Viability meaning that our home, the BeauSoleil Louisiana Solar Home http://www.beausoleilhome.org was the most affordable, constructible and livable home. In addition, we won the Peoples Choice Award where we received over 17,000 votes. Immediately after we were selected for the Decathlon, Robert Guercio began volunteering his time and devoting his energy towards making our project a reality. Robert offered industrial design expertise, business-advice, fundraising help, and also personal and business monetary donations. It is difficult to quantify Roberts contribution because it was so extensive. I would estimate that Mr. Guercio spent over 300 hours during the project and continues to offer assistance. But, Robert was much more than a typical volunteer, it was his passion for sustainable design and the desire to make a difference in our community and region that truly set him apart. In addition to Robert Guercios personal and business contributions to the School of Architecture and Design, he has also led efforts to promote recycling at the Festival Acadien and Festival International (recently voted the best World Music Festival.) At every turn, I seem to find Mr. Guercio and his community-oriented businesses front and center in terms of environmental and civic contributions. I am confident that Mr. Guercio will continue to be committed community member and employee wherever he works. Roberts enthusiasm, passion, and hard work will yield substantial results in whatever endeavor he is assigned. I would be happy and honored to offer any further information at your convenience. I can be reached at the number below. Thank you for your consideration of Mr. Guercios qualifications. Sincerely,

W. Geoff Gjertson, AIA Professor of Architecture 337-278-2722