During my 20-plus years in the newspaper industry, I’ve run across numerous individuals who have helped me become better professionally and whose friendships — whether they went beyond work or not — have enriched my employment experience.

Among that group, there are a few who have especially influenced me professionally. I asked a few of them to comment on this site about their experiences in working with me on a professional level and if appropriate what they found in associating with me on a personal level — whether it be at work or in more formal settings.

Unfortunately, I was unable to use any comments from my most recent managers regarding my employment at the Des Moines Register because of company policy prohibiting references. In their stead, I have enlisted comments from one of the most experienced journalists I most recently worked with and a few words from my most recent employee evaluation.

Here, then are a few observations from fellow professionals about my work and other attributes. Thanks very much to all of you who offered kind sentiments.