December 16, 2014

To Whom It May Concern:

The Level Playing Field Institute (LPFI) is a non-profit organization, based in Oakland, committed
to eliminating the barriers faced by underrepresented people of color in science, technology,
engineering and math (STEM). For the past three years, Manolo Calderon has participated in our
Summer Math and Science Honors Academy (SMASH) at the University of Southern California.
SMASH is a highly selective five-week STEM & residential program which serves low-income high
school students. At SMASH USC Manolo was exposed to a demanding university-like schedule and
environment where over the course of 3 summers he successfully completed rigorous courses in
the following subjects: Algebra II, PreCalculus, Calculus, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer
Science I, II, & III, Science Writing, Engineering & Design, and College Success.

Throughout his education Manolo has epitomized academic commitment, consistency and
resolve. As part of the USC Neighborhood Academic Initiative (NAI) Manolo has invested every
other Saturday during the academic year since the 5th grade to enrich his skills in all major
course subjects. He has been, and continues to be focused on preparing himself for college.
During this academic year he added to that commitment by enrolling in an Advanced Placement
(AP) course for Computer Science, which meets three Saturdays out of every month from
2pm-5pm. Manolo is determined to demonstrate that Latino males can pass the AP Computer
Science exam in the State of California, if provided the resources and an opportunity to do so.

In terms of Manolos ability to work collaboratively and be a steward of his community, you will
not find a better ambassador. As a 9th & 10th grader Manolo participated in the Health Justice
Council program, which educated his local community on critical issues such as nutrition, hygiene
and teen pregnancy. He is currently in his second year volunteering as a Library Assistant, where
he supports the librarian with educational programming and tutors elementary school students.
As a role model the last four years, Manolo has taught hip hop dance to elementary school youth,
effectively using artistic expression to empower younger students and make a difference.

Manolo is quite frankly, one of the most dynamic and proven young men I have had the pleasure
to work with and mentor. He shares his creativity and personality in such an unassuming and
humble way, that he often inspires his fellow scholars and those around him to step forward and
participate as well. Manolo intuitively knows that his accomplishments and future success is
intertwined with the success of those around him.

In short, what Manolo can potentially offer a university or an organization is evidenced by his
accomplishments, his proven dedication, his creativity, and his humanity. Manolo Calderon will
be more than an asset to you, he will galvanize and empower those around him to share their
personal talents and stay committed to their academic and professional endeavors.

Sincerely,


Ramon Chairez
Site Director | SMASH Academy USC | Level Playing Field Institute
Phone 619 794 3877 | ramon@lpfi.org | www.lpfi.org
2201 Broadway, Ste. 101 Oakland, CA 94612

T 415-946-3030 info@lpfi.org

www.lpfi.org