And I quote:

Hilariously, I can almost guarantee that your professor will deduct points from your first, and actual memo, for having it read "In response to a request from one of my superiors...". I think he'll make a written comment on it stating that responsibilty for the memo should be taken by the memo writer. That way the employees can think you're the prick and he's still the boss. I would have gone with the second memo myself, but then again I do own a walkman and a sense of humor.