PORTFOLIO

MARIE GILLCRIST

MTGILLCRIST@GMAIL.COM

THIS PORTFOLIO INCLUDES WRITING SAMPLES FROM MY PR

INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES.

Certain proprietary aspects of the content have been removed.

Table of Contents

PG. 2 Resume

PG. 3 Media Briefing

PG. 4-9 Pitches

PG. 10 Press Release

PG. 11-12 Digital Media Examples

PG. 13-15 Secured Influencer Coverage

PG. 16-18 Recommendation Letters

2
 ONSITE MEDIA VIP ALERT

Hosting Details: Check in: August 4, 2018

Estimated Arrival Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m. (Journalist is driving from Kansas City and estimates
she’ll arrive between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.)
Check out: August 6, 2018
Duration: Two nights, double occupancy, booked in a complimentary king room (Journalist is
traveling with her husband)
Media Rate: $ Amount: Covered by
Confirmation #: Confirmation number

About Journalist: Name: Journalist’s name

About: Journalist is a freelance writer highlighting
food, travel & spirits. She is the Co-author of Be
Your Own Bartender. Her articles have appeared in
publications such as, Food & Wine, Vogue, The
New York Times, Travel + Leisure, and many more.
Email: Journalist’s email
Dietary Restrictions: Journalist’s husband avoids
gluten
Physical Limitations: None
Instagram: @
Twitter: Twitter account link

Angle/Publication(s): Angle: Journalist is checking out the Ramble for upcoming coverage on the recent growth of
RiNo, which now has a first-class boutique hotel, and is easier/better to visit than ever.

GQ (Online): (UMV: 11508611). GQ is purposed to be the ultimate authority for men’s style
and news. The publication appeals to professional young men interested in the latest fashion,
fitness, women, sports and travel news.

Outlets Media Will Journalist will have a car with her; we will comp the valet charge.
Utilize During Stay:
__ Breakfast Room Journalist has requested drinks for two at 6 p.m. on Sunday 8/5 at Death & Co Denver.
Service
Reservations have been made for 7:30 p.m. on Sunday 8/5 for dinner at Super Mega Bien.
_X_Valet
For ideas of what to do during her stay journalist was provided a “48 Hours in RiNo” fact
_X_DC/AM sheet.

__ The Garden

__ Suite 6A

_X_ Death & Co

3
Pitch Examples
Surfing named official sport of California
Subject: Celebrate the Official Sport of California in Client’s Name, America’s First Surf Town

Hi XX,

I wanted to share some exciting news -- surfing has been named the official sport of California! As I’m sure you know,
Dana Point is located along South Orange County’s extraordinary Coastal region, halfway between Los Angeles and San
Diego. What you may not know, however, is the history Dana Point holds as America’s first surf town.

As home to the world’s first retail surf shop, Hobie Surf Shop, the infamous Killer Dana surf break, and the production
site of the 1966 movie, Endless Summer, Dana Point is truly one of America’s first surf towns. Surfing legends, Hobie
Alter and Bruce Brown, built a deeply entrenched surf culture that to this day illustrates the comfortable and welcoming
surfing environment of Dana Point. The surf town is also home to two well-known surfing magazines, Surfer’s Journal
and Surfer Magazine.

The spectacular surfing culture of Dana Point has continued throughout the years. On any given day, hundreds of surfers
can be found catching the waves at all times of the day. New to surfing? No problem. Dana Point’s Girl in the Curl offers
surfing lessons and camps at Doheny State Beach. The welcoming surf culture of Dana Point is perfect for beginners and
pros.

What better place to celebrate the official sport of California than in America’s first surf town?

If you are interested in an image of Dana Point or more information on its history and activities, I’d be happy to share
that with you.

Best,
Marie

Off-Season meeting destinations

Subject: Client’s Location is the Perfect Off-Season Meeting Destination

Hi XX,

Looking for the perfect off-season meeting destination? Look no further as Dana Point, California, has everything and
more to offer to make off-season meetings memorable and unique. Nestled between Southern California’s largest cities
– Los Angeles and San Diego – Dana Point is located along South Orange County’s extraordinary Coastal region. Home to
some of the most breathtaking ocean views, it is an ideal year-round destination.

With temperatures averaging around 70 degrees, Dana Point is the perfect spot for meetings even in the winter months.
Offering ample indoor and outdoor meeting space, the destination is home to four luxury resorts perfect for any
meeting or work retreat. Below my signature, please find additional information about Dana Point’s four luxury resorts.
`
Not only does Dana Point have four luxury resorts that will make any meeting memorable, the destination is also home
to plenty of offerings for team building activities and excursions, including whale watching, surfing lessons, harbor
cruises and more.

Please let me know if you would like photos or more information on the resorts or excursions offered in Dana Point, as I
am happy to provide.

Best,

4
Marie

• DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach: Visitors can escape to an inviting beachfront enclave just steps away
from the sparkling blue water of the Pacific Ocean. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach offers a perfect
setting for meeting and events for both locals and visitors from afar. The hotel provides 13,000 square feet in total
meeting and event capacity, with 9,800 square feet indoors and 3,200 square feet outdoors. The 196-squite
property blends boutique style with a beach house mindset resulting in a laid back, day-at-the-beach vibe.

• Laguna Cliffs Marriot Resort & Spa: The AAA Four Diamond coastal retreat recently completed a multi-million-dollar
renovation to become a premier Southern California travel destination. The resort features 378 transformed rooms
and suites with more than 10,000 square feet of indoor meeting space and 30,000 square feet of outdoor panoramic
event space. The resort’s location is convenient to John Wayne Airport and all Dana Point and Laguna Beach area
attractions – making the resort so easy to get to, yet so hard to leave.

• Monarch Beach Resort: Guests can retreat to the comfort of the recently renovated guestrooms, where the new
palette of blues and greens perfectly parallels the Southern California destination. Enjoy private beach access,
complete with Beach Butler Service. Admire the striking ocean views from every one of the 18 holes at Monarch
Beach Golf Links. Plunge into a refreshing three-lane lap pool with an underwater sound system, or lounge in a
glamour cabana at the main ocean pool. And, when you’ve had your day in the great Pacific outdoors, or what to
unwind from the day’s meetings and conferences, indulge in Monarch Beach Resort’s award-winning, 30,000
square-foot Miraval Spa for the ultimate in luxurious pampering.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Perched atop a 150-foot seaside bluff with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean
and miles of sandy beach, the 396-room Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, a AAA Five Diamond Award resort, captivates
guests from the moment of arrival with its awe-inspiring location. Conferences, meetings and special events are
absolutely spectacular here at Dana Point’s majestic Ritz Carlton. The resort offers 80,225 square feet of total event
space, 54,000 square feet of which offers graceful garden courtyards, pool terraces and expansive oceanfront lawns
in memorable outdoor settings.

Mountain Biking trails

Subject: Client’s Unbeatable Mountain Biking Trails

Hi XX,

Did you know Dana Point is a close neighbor to some of Southern California’s most unbeatable mountain biking trails?

The coastal destination not only offers pristine seascapes, romantic overlooks and beach strolls, but also is closely located
to unparalleled mountain biking trails for every adventurous traveler. Easily accessible bike rental shops along neighboring
parks and trails makes mountain biking fun and easy for any individual or group. Below my signature, please find additional
information about perfect trails for mountain biking offering beautiful views of Dana Point and the Pacific.

If you are interested in an image of Dana Point, please let me know as I am happy to provide.

Best,
Marie

• Patriot Trail: The Patriot Trail is an easy, rolling doubletrack trail. The trail includes an intersection with the Harbor
View Trail giving the option for two paths. Enjoy steep descents and ascents along with unbeatable views of the
coast and surrounding hills at the flagpole.

5
 • Colinas Ridge Trail: The Colinas Ridge Trail offers bikers rolling hills and several single-track trails stemming from
the wider main trail. This trail has multiple intersecting trails providing individuals or groups different path options
along the way. Taking the single-track route, bikers will be rewarded with a stunning view of the ocean and
Saddleback Valley.
• Las Ramblas Trail: The Las Ramblas Trail is very popular on overcast and laid-back days, as the wide doubletrack
gives bikers the opportunity to enjoy a less physically demanding mountain biking trail while still enjoying beautiful
scenery. The trail starts at the back of the nearby neighborhood and leads to multiple other trails, eventually
connecting to Flagpole Hill.
• Aliso Summit Trail: The Aliso Summit Trail is known to be very pleasant and well maintained. The track is not
known for being as physically demanding as other options, while still including the reward of spectacular views of
Aliso Canyon and the Pacific Ocean.

Holiday Travel
Subject: Celebrate the Holidays in Client’s Location!

Hi XX,

I am reaching out to share some exciting news detailing the magical accommodations and events the will make the
upcoming holiday season at Dana Point memorable for years.

Dana Point’s mild climate, with temperatures averaging around 70 degrees, make for the perfect holiday getaway. The
welcoming outdoor lifestyle invites one and all to enjoy whale watching year-round, outstanding boating, interactive
water adventures and more. Travelers and groups can enjoy oceanfront accommodations featuring world-class, spas,
dining, golf and pools at one of the destination’s four award winning resorts. Not to mention, the events intended for
Dana Point to host an unforgettable holiday season. Below my signature, please find additional information about the
city’s holiday offerings.

Please let me know if you would like an image of these events or more detailed information, as I am happy to provide.

Best,
Marie

• 44th Annual Boat Parade of Lights: Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season for the city’s main holiday event,
the annual Boat Parade of Lights; this year’s theme is “A Western Wonderland.” Join boaters from around
Orange County who have decorated their boats in country western themed decorations, animation and lights to
vie for numerous awards. Locals and visitors can be part of the parade or view the parade from anywhere in the
Harbor.
o Friday, Dec. 7 & Saturday Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m.
o Friday, Dec. 14 & Saturday Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m.
• Holidays in the Harbor: During Holidays in the Harbor at Mariner’s Village/Alley and Dana Wharf, Santa will hear
Christmas wishes, and holiday activities will be scheduled to bring families and children together for a magical
holiday. Activities will include photos with Santa, performances by various characters, holiday crafts and face
painting. Come dressed as your favorite cowboy or cowgirl and join in the family fun holiday activities.
o Friday, Dec. 7 & Saturday Dec. 8, from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
o Friday, Dec. 14 & Saturday Dec. 15, from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Boat Rides with Santa: Located at the Dana Wharf docks, guests can come aboard for a Harbor cruise with Santa
and his helpers. Santa will hear Christmas wishes as visitors cruise around the beautiful harbor. The El Camino
Real Junior Woman’s Club will be on hand to take photos for a small donation.
o Saturday, Dec. 1 & Sunday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

6
 • Santa Paws: The Pet Project Foundation will be hosting the 6th Annual Santa Paws event. People are invited to
bring their pets down to El Torito Courtyard to have their photo taken with Santa. All proceed will go to support
the Pet Project Foundation, which supports the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.
o Saturday, Dec. 1, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Pitch and Op-ed for school newspaper

Subject: Teach to Not Cheat

Dear XXX:

Taking an interest in the U.S. educational system is like uncovering pieces to an unsolved mystery. To delve into this
further, by looking specifically at cheating, why it occurs, and how it is affecting our education system, there are clear
conclusions to be made on why our country’s education system gets the lowered status it does.

This piece, Teach to Not Cheat, focuses on how teaching students to learn and understand, “What I do, I know” will not
only eliminate cheating, but increase academic success in the U.S. Your article, “Is Cheating Getting Worse” has opened
many people’s eyes to the problem cheating in schools has become, now it is time to fix this problem.

For this piece to be published in the Five Cent Cigar, where readers are already interested in cheating and its scope of
effects in the U.S. and on college campuses the audience is sure to take to this piece on teaching to not cheat.

Thank you for your time. I will call you Friday, Feb. 23 to see if I can answer any questions, and speak with you further on
this increasingly timely matter.

Best,

Marie Gillcrist

Op-ed Cheating
Teach to Not Cheat
Feb. 21, 2018
Marie Gillcrist, University of Rhode Island, B.A. Public Relations

The United States is ranked 17th in the world in educational performance. Shocking, for a country that is as prosperous
and proud as we are. Many factors contribute to this ranking, and to student’s performance in academia. Could part of
this be because of the tendency for students to cheat? Why are students cheating? How do we fix the problem, and
increase academic success in the U.S.? Kelly Gallagher states in Education Week, “I also find it odd that while many
states have raised their test scores over the past few years, we as a country continue to fall in international comparisons
of academic achievement. How can this be? If we are getting “better,” why are we declining internationally?” To answer
this question, and many more based around the U.S. educational system we must first look at how students are being
taught to learn.

In the U.S. there are millions of regulation tests used to determine students’ level of success in the classroom, which
should then determine one’s level of success outside of the classroom. The SAT’s or the ACT tests are administered to
score students as seniors in High School, which then prompts their acceptance into college, further determining a
student’s future. Even before High School, or higher education, Elementary and middle school students take regulated
tests for educational boards to determine if teachers are doing their jobs to prepare students for their futures. What’s to
say these regulated tests are properly determining the success students can or have found in the classroom? Even more
so, how are these tests fostering cheating in schools at all levels?

7
Teaching to the test is a trend across all age levels, and through many different fields of study. As explained by
Gallagher, “In considering this study, it is important to note that the standards are not the problem. We all want
standards that set high expectations for our children’s learning. The problem is that there are too many standards. If
teachers were to teach all the standards at the level they need to be taught so that students would acquire meaningful
understanding, one study found, we would have to change the educational system from K-12 to K-22. Because there are
too many standards, and because most of these standards are assessed on the state tests, teachers are pressured to
cover everything. When everything is covered, shallow teaching and thinking occur.” As Gallagher states this type of
teaching fosters shallow thinking.

For a student to memorize monotonously for hours in hopes of passing these standardized tests is a prime example of
shallow thinking at work. The problem with this memorizing then testing, and then days later forgetting the information,
is that students realize either way the information is not being learned or experienced, but used as a means to pass. If
the information does not need to be truly understood to pass, and either way students are not understanding the
information and still passing, the flaws of the teaching to the test become exposed. In an article in The New York Times
titled Studies Find More Students Cheating, With High Achievers No Exceptions it explains how large-scale cheating has
been uncovered, and it’s happening often in supposedly successful education environments.

So, to end cheating, teach to not cheat. As the old mantra states, “What I do, I know.” This could not be truer in the field
of academia. Get students in the classroom to be experiencing lectures hands on, and finding a way to understand, not
just memorize. It should be teachers’ goals to keep standards high, while also teaching for students to understand and
critically think, not to meet every criterion set by every school county across the U.S. Get students involved in finding a
way to learn, then understand, then be able to instruct others in these findings to truly know. Then test the student’s;
chances are there won’t be any writing up the sleeve, or scribbles on their desk. Understanding takes time, effort, and
forces students and teachers to work together to succeed. To Raise the U.S. in the ranking for world’s educational
performance, first, cheating has to stop.

Influencer Pitches
Subject: Fresh-roasted coffee just to @influencerhandle’s liking!

Hi XXX,

My name is Marie Gillcrist and I manage influencer partnerships at _________ for our client _______, the
original gourmet coffee club.

I’m reaching out because your Instagram account caught our eye. We love your approach __________ and
think you would make a great brand ambassador.

__________ merge quality and convenience to offer more than 150 varieties of roast-to-order coffees. Every
coffee is artisan roasted in small batches only after you place your order and is shipped the next day to arrive
to you at peak freshness, with a “roasted on” date proudly displayed on the bag.

As an influencer partner for ________, you’d enjoy delicious and hand-crafted coffee while providing coverage
of the product on your channel(s). Please let me know if you’re interested in learning more and I can send
over additional details on the product and the terms of a potential collaboration with _______.

I look forward to connecting!

Marie Gillcrist

8
Subject: @influencerhandle + this new ____________ are the perfect fusion!

Hi XXX,

My name is ______ and I manage influencer partnerships at _________ for our client _______, a Colorado
family-owned company who has been creating Rocky Mountain hand-crafted coffees for more than 50 years.

I’m reaching out because your Instagram account caught our eye. We love your approach to ________ and
think you would make a great brand ambassador for _______ new line of coffees that are exclusively available
at Walmart and online.

_________ are purposeful pairings of ethically sourced, USDA Organic beans that take consumers beyond
their cup of joe through the farm-to-roasting journey. The brand believes that coffee is a craft for all to
understand and enjoy, which is why each bag includes access to seed-to-cup educational resources, food
pairing recommendations, suggested brewing methods and more.

As an influencer partner for ______, we would sponsor you in exchange for set coverage on your channels –
while you enjoy delicious and hand-crafted coffee!

Please let me know if you’re interested in learning more and I can send over additional details on the product
and the terms of a potential collaboration with_______. If you have a media kit and/or rate list you can
provide, that would be very helpful as well.

I look forward to connecting!

Marie Gillcrist

9
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT: B PUBLIC RELATIONS

MARIE GILLCRIST

GARDEN OF THE GODS SUPERIOR SERVICES MERIT ITS AAA FOUR-DIAMOND STATUS
Its unique location atop a mesa in Colorado Springs proven to be exemplary in luxury, sophistication, and comfort
justifies its AAA Four-Diamond Status.

COLORADO SPRINGS COLO. – JULY 19, 2018 – Garden of the Gods unique location atop a mesa in Colorado Springs is not
all that contributed to this luxury resorts undisputed AAA Four-Diamond Status. Being awarded the AAA Four-Diamond
Status is not only evidence to its exemplary service, facilities and amenities, but represents its ultimate success in all it
provides.

The resort was granted the award by esteemed professional inspectors, the hospitality industry, and over 58 million
AAA/CAA members. Previously being named among the top five best hotel pools by USA Today, Garden of the Gods is no
stranger to such accolades. Michael Petrone Director of Content Development explains, “Just six percent of the more than
27,000 properties Inspected & Approved by AAA achieve this prestigious distinction!”

“The transformation of the property has been achieved through the vision of the owners, and then brought to life by the
dedication and tireless work of so many people who have worked towards this goal for the past four and a half years,”
said Scott Marble the general manager of Garden of the Gods. “It is because of the hard work of so many people that we
are now part of a very select group of hotels.”

AAA Publishing has been awarding the AAA- Four Diamond status to hotels and restaurants in the global travel industry
for more than 80 years. AAA conducts professional, in-person property inspections and publishes the results for member
travelers to see. The inspection is said to offer the only rating system using comprehensive, on-site evaluations guided by
member priorities. The hotels, restaurants, and resorts unforgettable enough to receive this award will continue to deliver
excellent experiences for many years to come. The establishments that have received this award can be viewed online
(2018 list link)- now alongside Garden of the Gods.

About Garden of the Gods

Perched atop a mesa in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a private club and luxury resort that showcases
expansive vistas of the Rocky Mountains, snow-capped Pikes Peak and the awe-inspiring National Natural Landmark,
Garden of the Gods Park. Boasting a legendary history, the resort has played host to some of America’s most beloved
characters, such as Walt Disney, Gene Autry and John Wayne, and today, the same beautiful setting continues to draw
the famous and beckon travelers worldwide. Guests enjoy golfing at its 27-hole championship Kissing Camels course;
tennis on two outdoor, and four state-of-the-art indoor courts; outdoor swimming pools; acclaimed dining offerings; and
a new model of holistic healthcare delivery at Strata Integrated Wellness Spa. Here, guests will discover treatments not
found elsewhere in the state, or the Rocky Mountain West, that integrate Eastern and Western medicine with a focus on
proactive health and wellbeing. Bespoke programs for busy executives, groups and leisure travelers are offered by a
team of acclaimed, board-certified physicians. Among other awards, Garden of the Gods was named one of the best
resorts in Colorado Springs by U.S. News & World Report in its 2017 Best Hotel Awards, and one of the state’s “Top 100
Women Owned Businesses” by ColoradoBiz Magazine. For more information, call (800) 923-8838,
visit www.gardenofthegodsclub.com, or follow @GardenoftheGodsCollection on Facebook, and @GGClubandResort on
Instagram and Pinterest.

10
Digital Media Samples

GEN ERA L EDUCA TION

W A N T EA RLY
REGISTRA TION A N D FREE
FOOD?
T i r ed of r egi st er i n g f or c l a sses a n d t h e c ou r se a l r ea d y
bei n g c l o sed ? E v en m or e t i r ed of n ot h a v i n g t i m e f or a
m ea l bet w een c l a sses? J o i n u s f or t h e Gen er a l
E d u c a t i on Cou r se F a i r i n t h e M em or i a l U n i o n B a l l r oom
on M a r c h 29 t h f r om 11a m - 1:30p m f or f r ee p i z z a a n d
c h a n c es t o w i n ea r l y r eg i st r a t i o n , U R I B ook st or e
p r i z es, a n d a n i Pa d !  

h t t ps:/ / t w i t t er .com / URI_Gen Ed Facebook :URI N ew Gen er al

In st agr am : @URI_Gen ED  Educat ion Fai r .

11
12
Secured Influencer Coverage

Proposed Influencers
Utilizing the monthly budget of _____ Company has identified and made outreach to the following list of
influencers to support awareness – and ultimately drive sales – of _______.

A. Colorado
Handle: @
Followers: 4.1K
Engagement: 13.47%
Top locations: Colorado (43.58%), California (16.79%), New York (2.83%)
Ask: One permanent post and two Instagram Stories
Total:
$

Handle: @
Followers: 6.6K
Engagement: 5.4%
Top locations: California (38.99%), Kentucky (8.51%), Florida (4.13%), New York
(3.35%), Texas (2%)
Ask: One permanent post, two Instagram Stories and one blog post

13
 Total: $

B. Illinois
Handle: @
Followers: 42k
Engagement: 4.00%
Ask: One permanent post with 1-2 Instagram Stories
Total:
$

14
Handle: @
Followers: 28.5k
Engagement: 2%
Ask:
Total:
$

15
Recommendation Letters

September 25, 2018

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this reference at the request of Marie Gillcrist, who worked at B Public Relations in
Denver, Colorado as a PR and Social Media Intern this past summer. From her very first week at
BPR, it was apparent that one of Marie’s strongest attributes is her strong work ethic. From the
very start, Marie was eager to learn and grow throughout the internship and her dedication to
the job did not go unnoticed. From being prompt in showing up to the office, and often times
early, to going out of her way to capture social content while dining on the weekend at one of
our clients, Marie quickly made herself an invaluable member of our team. She often went
above and beyond and was the first to raise her hand for projects.

Marie quickly exhibited a number of strengths that helped her succeed through her internship
at BPR. Beyond her strong work ethic, Marie asked smart questions when being assigned a task
and was able to quickly understand the task at hand, and run with it. When providing Marie
with feedback on her work, she took note of the feedback and applied it to improving her
overall work quality the next time around. Marie was punctual, organized and an effective
communicator, checking in with team members throughout the process of completing
assignments. The team here at BPR was able to not only rely on Marie throughout her
internship, but we also thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her and found her to be a
natural addition to our team.

For all of these reasons, I would recommend Marie to any prospective employer. We are
extremely thankful for her contributions to our business throughout her internship and wish
her the best of luck in her career. If you have any further questions about Marie’s performance,
please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,
Meg Sessions

MEG SESSIONS
b public relations // account supervisor
2930 umatilla street suite 200 denver, colo. 80211
o: (303) 658-0605 // m: (520) 260-3255
facebook // instagram // twitter // linkedin

2930 Umatilla St. Denver, CO. 80211 (303) 658-0605 www.wearebpr.com hello@wearebpr.com

16
March 2, 2018

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing on behalf of Marie Gillcrist, who is a candidate for employment. It has been my
great pleasure to get to know Marie in her position as a marketing intern for newportFILM, a
nonprofit documentary film series based in Newport, RI. Throughout her internship, Marie
exhibited great maturity, grace and confidence while she executed high-level marketing tasks in
preparation for newportFILM screenings and fundraising events.

Marie’s primary duties related to the planning and execution of the newportFILM Friendraiser,
scheduled for March 10, 2018. Her responsibilities included fundraiser preparations, including
collaborating with full-time staff on budget-friendly and creative décor ideas, graphic design
work on Canva, social media strategy and coordinating the newportFILM Instagram Instastory
(for an engaged audience of 5,500+ followers). It is a testament to Marie’s incredible attention
to detail and work ethic that she was assigned the responsibility of leading a portion of
newportFILM’s social media efforts. We pride ourselves on our social media presence and
would not give this position to an intern lightly. I am so confident in Marie’s work that we have
offered her a part-time position throughout the duration of her spring semester.

If your organization has the opportunity to hire Marie Gillcrist, I can assure you that you will be
blessed to have her many talents, wonderful spirit and creative energy in your workplace. I
extend my highest recommendation and would be happy to speak further about her
qualifications or answer any questions at rbertrand@newportFILM.com or directly by cell
phone: 781-864-6695.

Sincerely,

Rebecca Bertrand
Executive Director
newportFILM

17
My name is Stephen Santonastaso;

I am the head coach for the women's volleyball program at the University of Rhode Island and have been working
directly with Ms. Gillcrist since her freshman year of college in 2014. Obviously, as an athletic coach, my observations of
Ms. Gillcrist are from a slightly different perspective than the traditional academic or employment environment. These
last four years I have had the pleasure of watching Ms. Gillcrist develop into an exemplary student-athlete.

The undergraduate communications program here at Rhode Island can be overwhelming just on its own, never mind
combining that with 25+ hours per week of practice, competition, and travel with our volleyball program. As a student-
athlete in our women's volleyball program Ms. Gillcrist has consistently displayed characteristics necessary for
success. She has been able to balance a demanding division one athletic schedule with high quality academic
performance, displaying outstanding work ethic and time management skills to be at her best both in the gym and
classroom.

Marie has also played a strong leadership role in our program being voted as team captain by her peers for her senior
year. This is not only a further example of her work ethic, but a display of her abilities to manage the many
interpersonal relationships on a collegiate team. She not only had to develop and maintain her own relationships, but
was instrumental in maintaining team cohesion among a diverse group of athletes.

Thank you for the opportunity to endorse Ms. Gillcrist for this opportunity. In my opinion there is dedication,
commitment, and passion in everything Ms. Gillcrist sets her mind to. She is a driven young woman who will be a
tremendous asset to any opportunity in her future.

Thank You,

Stephen Santonastaso

18