I imagine the brassy bellow of a bugle—we are the Clarion, after all—the multitudinous meaning of its whine, the changing of a guard. Some leave, medaled, lauded and fulfilled by noble service, and an energetic troupe assumes the vacant position, filling the ranks, holding the line.

As such, many thank yous are in order. To my predecessor, Ana, thank you for your brightness. Not only have you shone a light on underrepresented communities, setting a precedent for DEI-focused journalism on the Clarion, but you have also acted as the bubbly steward of our publication’s community.

To our graduating staff: Toni, no one knows music better. With your ear to the ground, you followed the pulse of DU’s vibrant music scene, or you picked at the bones of pop culture phenomena with intelligent hilarity. Peter, your work is an inspiration and your kindness a feat. With a camera, you are a virtuoso, but your humility stands out above all. Always willing to be a guide or a friend, your presence will be missed. Nehal, your stalwart support has kept us afloat. Thank you for making our lives easy. Matthew, the eagerness you have to create change is only trumped by your ability to follow through. Many do not realize the immense contributions of their peers, of which yours is paramount. Kaitlyn, your authorial voice is striking and impactful in moments of delicacy. Reading your work each week has been a pleasure

Chase and Caitlyn, your commitment is unmatched. From international issues to undergraduate Senate, I appreciate the work both of you put in for no other reason than a love of the craft. You both are the reason that I take pride as the incoming Editor-in-Chief. Exposure to the best writers on DU’s campus is my favorite part of the job.

It is fitting that this letter should be about the contributions and accomplishments of others, because that is what the Clarion is, in the end. I am unbelievably grateful to be assuming the wheel of our publication, but my work will always be for those who dedicate their time and energy to the Clarion. 

Like all that ends, there is more to come, and I am excited to oversee the Clarion through a period that I believe will be filled with positive change. To our current staff, new faces, and my partner in leadership, Ambriel, let us shape the Clarion in our image, reflecting the passion, talent and charm of DU’s brightest student journalists.

In service,

     Executive Editor emeritus,

          Editor-in-Chief incoming, 

Aubrey Cox