To the readers,

Since my first Monday at DU, I’ve been writing for the Arts & Life section at the Clarion. I got the privilege of working under Toni Elton, the previous editor, who helped me find my passion within the industry. From free shows in exchange for concert reviews, to student band features and everything in between, I fell in love with uplifting the voices of the creative community at DU and beyond. Establishing myself within the entertainment realm of DU has brought me so many experiences that I wouldn’t have gotten if I wasn’t showing up to cover stories or reaching out to feature the multitude of talented people on and off campus. 

When I took over the role as editor my sophomore year, I got the privilege of connecting other aspiring writers to this community as well. This was a very meaningful experience for me, as I got to assist in shaping other people’s love for this side of journalism. Whether it was snagging them press passes to their favorite bands’ shows or helping them chase down an interview contact, I fostered a community of writers who care about creative coverage. But, it wasn’t just me. I have many to thank for my experience as Arts & Life editor. Thanks to Toni Elton for helping me discover my passion and for believing in me to take over the role. Thanks to Haylee Griffith for taking over as editor while I was abroad and continuing to build that sense of community within the club. I was excited to return to a whole new gaggle of writers, namely Eliza Schwartz and Weston Tybor, who consistently show up, write meaningful content and curate their own ideas to bring to every pitch night. And lastly, thanks to all of the talented artists, musicians and creatives who gave me something to write about every week. 

As I transition into the role of Executive Editor for the 2025-2026 school year, I am beyond excited to expand into the wider Clarion community, using what I’ve learned from my predecessor Riley Laub and the outgoing editor in Chief, Ana Júlia Rodrigues Alves, alongside my firsthand experience in the newsroom. To Liam, Mason, Hampton, Nick, Josie, and Delaney, thank you for your dedication and for helping shape the Clarion into what it is today.

I am beyond excited to work with our incoming editor in chief, Alyssa Avila. Your passion for the UNIFY section will continue to spread into all aspects of the newsroom, and I can’t wait to bring our ideas to life. 

While I’ll always hold a special place in my heart for the Arts & Life section — my corner of the Clarion for the past three years — I’m eager to bring the same dedication and approach to my new position. To me, the Clarion isn’t just a campus newspaper. It’s also a community of passionate storytellers and friends who challenge each other to excellence with every piece, and for that, I am thankful. This newsroom has become my second home, filled with people who share my commitment to quality journalism and community engagement.

Through my journey from contributing writer to Arts & Life editor and now to Executive Editor, I’m forever grateful for the peers who shaped my path. I can’t wait to continue building the Clarion legacy alongside our incredible team. 

Endless thanks,

Anna Neumann

Incoming Executive Editor