To the readers of the East Tennessean,

This publication has changed my life. In my two years as a staff writer, I have had the privilege of bonding with some of the most fascinating individuals and profound stories within my community. The familial connections, endless opportunities and encouragement that I have received from the East Tennessean have aided in my personal growth in ways that I will never be able to express enough gratitude for.

There were times where I cried in interviews, maintained friendships with interviewees, spent hours navigating sensitive topics and even chased down a presidential candidate. It’s these unique experiences that have shown me the true power of stories.

In my time as a writer, I had the absolute honor of working for two incredible Executive Editors, Allison Winters and Connor Lute.

Allison was a mentor for me as I was finding myself again freshman year, and her continuous support is something I cherish. Her deep passion for the East Tennessean, creativity and openness made her such a delight to work with. I would follow her leadership anywhere.

Connor is one of the most intelligent and trustworthy people I know. Not only has he shown incredible grace in his work, but he is genuinely a friend to all. Connor believing in me through this transition and in the past year as a writer allowed me to tackle opportunities that I may have never even imagined I could accomplish before. He is a true leader, and I am very lucky to get to continue his initiatives moving forward.

The leadership of those who came before me serves an an inspiration for me. In this coming year, I will strive to maintain that family bond with our staff, and ensure that they walk away with the same personal growth that I was fortunate enough to receive in my time. I plan to seek out more opportunities for them to network and learn within the journalism industry, as well as expand our horizons into broadcast media.

Photo of Macy Strader. (Contributed/roanscholars.org)

It is important to me that the valuable stories we are so privileged to tell are reaching our students. That’s why I look forward to re-evaluating the accessibility of the East Tennessean through accommodation and translation.

I understand that with this responsibility I must serve as a trustworthy and diligent representative for campus media. I look forward to working for and amplifying the voices of the entire student body.

Thank you for this absolute dream of an opportunity.

Author