I’m not really sure how to end the experience of being the executive editor of the Clarion. While I am excited to move on from my undergraduate experience, the sad byproduct is that I have to leave a club I have invested myself in for three-and-a-half years.

When I started at the Clarion, I was a shy person who did not know anything about journalism. Now, I am one of a few who has had the honor of being an editor at one of the top university newspapers (and I’m still not sure how I got this position).

My involvement in the newspaper has been a life-changing experience and one I will always treasure for years to come. For being part of this experience, I would like to thank the wonderful writers that have allowed me to publish their work, as well as the editors and staff, Toni, Peter, Connor, Ana, Aubrey, Megan, Nehal and Ambriel who put up with me ranting about AP style and social posts week after week. Working with this amazing team was a pleasure.

My biggest thanks go to Tori Everson, who I was lucky enough to have as an editor-in-chief while I was executive editor. Together, we were able to shape the club in our vision, growing it to reach a bigger audience than we have ever had before, while also being able to grow our team of writers. Without Tori, none of the newspaper’s great accomplishments would have been possible, and I am extremely thankful to have worked with someone who made me look good at my work.

While I am proud of the work I have accomplished, I am ready to pass on the club into the capable hands of Ana Ortega and Aubrey Cox. Since they were chosen to be editors, I knew they were capable of leading this club, and I am excited to see them implement their plans. I know they will approach leading the club with the same excitement that I had.

As I wrote for/led the club, I began to realize how important journalism is for the world. As misinformation spreads more and more through social media and public figures, proper journalists are necessary to combat this. Looking back at the Clarion, I can say I am proud to have witnessed the journalists of the future.

Conor Chapman

Executive Editor Emeritus