Don't just take my word for it.
Take theirs.

Sandy E. Smith, M.P.A.
Past Mayor, City of Ventura, California
Senior Project Manager, Sespe Consulting
Adj. Prof., California Lutheran University

Tom exhibits a solid aptitude for debate, discussion, and group problem-solving.  He is also an extremely competent and consistent writer.  His papers were some of the best I have seen in my years as an instructor.  His scholarship shows the ability to not only understand and communicate complex, abstract concepts, but also the ability to recognize and integrate these concepts into his own assumptions – all from his own well-articulated, reflective experience. 

Currently, I am employed by Sespe Consulting, an environmental engineering firm where I serve as Senior Project Manager for projects requiring governmental agreements and entitlements in Southern California.  Previous to my work at Sespe, I served as the Southern California Government Relations Director for the nationally renowned law firm Alston & Bird.  While at Alston & Bird, I worked within the firm’s Legislative & Public Policy Group, whose members included former U.S. Senate Majority Leaders Bob Dole and Tom Daschle.  That experience gives me great confidence in saying that Tom possesses unique skills – the skill to not only plot policy implementation strategies that take place in complex, multi-actor settings, but also the added skill of “situational awareness” – an understanding that those strategies need to be adjusted and modified due to ever-changing policy environments.

As a former City Council Member, Mayor for the City of Ventura, Government Relations Director, and now, as a consultant on land use, I can say with confidence that Tom possesses the skills, abilities, and desire needed to succeed.

Herbert E. Gooch III, Ph.D.
Director Emeritus, Public Policy Program
California Lutheran University

Tom's academic performance and preparation have been excellent.  In my supervisorial role I have been impressed with his efficiency and effectiveness in whatever tasks have been assigned to him.  His academic ability and managerial effectiveness are confirmed consistently by the instructors and students with whom he has dealt, and by my colleagues who have had him in their graduate courses.  He demonstrates a rare blend of academic competence, personal rapport, and initiative.  He works well in groups, and his enthusiasm, intelligence, and incisive, detailed approach to problem-solving make him an exceptional employee.  I recommend him very highly.

Scott M. Johnson
CEO, Emergent Game Technologies

Tom brings a high level of professionalism and strong work ethic to everything he does.  The nature of a small company leads its employees to wear many hats, and Tom wore more than his share in his time at EGT.  He juggled his responsibilities with great aplomb, and as such, it is my pleasure to give him my highest recommendation.

Alice B. Hayes, Ph.D.
Past President, University of San Diego

I am pleased to recommend Mr. Tarantino for your consideration.  Although I cannot claim to know all of the 6,800 students at the University of San Diego, I do know Tom, and have had an opportunity to observe his academic performance and leadership activities.  I recommend him without reservation and with a great deal of enthusiasm.