Readers,
When people ask me why student journalism matters, I always think of the quiet, unseen work that takes place long before a story is ever published. It’s the interviews squeezed in between classes, headline debates, rounds and rounds of edits, and, ultimately, the desire shared by every member of our staff to understand and connect with our campus.
Journalism isn’t just about documenting events; it’s about creating a paper trail of who we are, what we value, and how we grow. Journalism, at its core, is service.
This year, I have had the privilege of leading The Baker Orange, a responsibility that I don’t take lightly. Every story we publish represents hours of curiosity and collaboration. Our reporters ask the difficult questions, and our photographers capture moments where words wouldn’t be sufficient. Our editors then shape these stories to help our community make sense of it all.
To be entrusted with guiding this incredibly talented staff is something I consider to be the greatest honor of my time at Baker.
We live in a moment in time where the role of journalism is regularly challenged. Yet, its importance has never been more clear. Reliable, consistent, and transparent reporting doesn’t tell people what to think; it starts the conversation. It ensures that the stories that need to be told aren’t lost to silence or convenience.
Student journalism, especially, reminds us that truth-seeking isn’t just reserved for newsrooms in big cities. It starts right here, with students who care deeply about their community.
I am incredibly lucky to work amongst such passionate and talented peers, and I am grateful to every reader who has picked up the paper, the magazine, visited our website, or trusted us with their story.
Thank you for supporting the work that we do, and thank you for reading.
We will be back to publishing your stories after the much-needed winter break. Until then, we hope you have a relaxing and peaceful holiday season.
https://thebakerorange.com/46851/showcase/end-of-season-a-letter-from-the-editor/
