Thomas Renner

"Tom and I worked for the same media co. in 2016 which is when we met. We first worked together however when he generously recommended me to take over his job as newspaper advisor at a college. I was honored and flattered and since I hadn't taught at college needed his guidance. In preparation to take over the following semester, Tom let me sit in on a class and via several communications provided me with the tools to get started to run a 20-student newsroom that following semester. Tom had hand-picked the editorial staff and (now sophomores) I worked with some of the same students who often conveyed to me a journalistic point, or idea they'd learned from
Tom, when making their story pitches. The copyeditor at the time had shown good skill in reading and fact-checking copy, she often deferred to Tom's instruction. It was apparent to me he made a memorable teacher. More recently (current) we collaborate because I am a judge for the HS part of a writing contest at the CT Press Club where Tom is the contest director. He offered me the chance so we do review the lengthy submissions. It is obvious to me Tom has high regard for his role and the students that submit work. He expresses high praise, and provides feedback to me as a judge, but also in the student submissions, he provides oversight and makes sure the judges are providing worthy and instructive feedback. I got to see him speak at one of the awards event, and it is very obvious he possesses leadership confidence, poise, and grace, and is a highly prized professional in this setting."