Serving as Editor-in-Chief of The Denver Clarion has been one of the greatest honors of my college experience. When I first joined the paper I knew I loved journalism, but I never could have imagined the impact this paper — and the people behind it — would have on me. 

Student journalism is not easy work. It means late nights in the Anderson Academic Commons, difficult conversations, balancing classes with breaking news and constantly striving to do better for the community we serve. But despite the challenges, it is some of the most rewarding work I have ever done. There is something incredibly meaningful about watching a group of passionate students come together every week with one shared goal: to inform, challenge and connect our campus.

I am endlessly proud of the dedication our editors, reporters, photographers and contributors brought to this publication. Every story published represented hours of hard work and genuine care for journalism and for this community.

To my editorial team — Zoe, Weston, Delaney, Josie, Nick, Theodora, Micah, Lina and Maddux, thank you for your unwavering commitment to The Clarion. Working alongside you all has been a privilege.

To our Executive Editor, Anna Neumann, your passion, warmth and dedication lit up our newsroom and I could not have asked for a better partner. Your leadership and friendship made this year unforgettable, and I am endlessly grateful for all that you brought to The Clarion.

And to the next generation of Clarion staffers: take pride in this work. Running a newspaper can feel overwhelming at times, but it is also deeply fulfilling. There will be difficult days, but there will also be moments that remind you exactly why journalism matters.

I know Nick Allen, Eliza Schwartz and Madison James will continue carrying on the 127-year legacy of our paper with care and dedication. Nick, you have been a pillar of the paper since the day you joined. As incoming Editor-in-Chief, I know you will lead this newsroom with thoughtfulness and passion. Eliza, your writing and contributions have made this paper stronger in countless ways. I know you will do an incredible job as Executive Editor. Madison, it has been so rewarding watching you grow from a contributing writer for UNIFY into such a strong journalist and incoming Managing Editor. I cannot wait to see all you accomplish.

To our readers: thank you. Thank you for picking up the paper, engaging with our reporting and trusting us to tell these stories. Student journalism only matters if people are willing to read, question and participate in the conversations it creates.

As I sign off as Editor-in-Chief, I leave feeling grateful — for this newsroom, for this university and for everyone who made this experience unforgettable. The Denver Clarion will always hold a special place in my heart.

Many thanks,

Alyssa Avila

Editor-in-Chief Emerita