Impersonal Letter of Rec from VIP Alum?

[ridofme]

Before I decided to apply to public policy grad school, I networked a bit to try and gather more information about different programs. I ended up having lunch with a VIP alum of one of my target schools who very generously offered to write me a letter of recommendation at the end of our chat. She started off in the master's program (which is what I am applying for) and went on to a PhD. She has had an illustrious career ever since - weaving in and out of the private and public sectors, publishing two relatively successful books, etc. - and now has a tenure track position at a top university. She also claims to have a personal relationship with the current dean.

I was very flattered that she offered to write me this rec letter, and I do feel like we had a lot in common and bonded in a more natural way than most 'informational interviews' allow for. That said, my relationship with this woman consists of an exchange of emails and one 90-minute lunch! I have no idea why she offered to write me this letter of rec, and two months removed from our initial meeting, I'm wondering if it's even worth it, especially if I would have to sacrifice one of my letters from someone who truly knows me. While this particular program doesn't say 'three letters and no more' on the website, a few other programs do specifically say they strongly discourage more than three. I suppose if I can add her on as a fourth, there's no harm (obviously I need to send an email to admissions), but assuming they discourage it, is it worth it to have this VIP replace an unknown referee with whom I have a stronger relationship? Thoughts?

[Chai_latte]

Don't sacrifice any of your other letters, but if you can tack on an extra one (call the office to find out)...

[emmm]

My vote would be for not sending it.

[Sovereign Soul]

I suggest that you send it. Most programs, from what I've seen say that you can send more, but there's no guarantee that they'll review them. Therefore, I say it can't hurt. Having a rec from a trusted source, even if i says little more than--I was impressed with this persons ambition and poise--could only help your application. Personally, I wouldn't send it to other programs, though.