Student journalism, and maybe even life more generally, is about holding space for multiple conflicting truths.
While I can’t point to one specific “aha” moment where I finally started to dispel my self-consciousness and claim my pride for the paper, I got there gradually over the course of my term as managing editor.
Looking back, the answer has been abundantly clear all along. I did it for the people.
The college newspaper was nowhere on my radar, and I had no previous experience with journalism.
Me, my staffers, we were there. And it happened. And I think that is important enough.
Even among people who value the arts, carving out space for critical engagement with — rather than just passive consumption of — art has been an endeavor I have treasured.
The people at this place have taught me that letting others in, while not always easy, is always worth it.
Throughout my time on the Life Desk, I’ve wondered what breathes life into this University.
Storytelling is powerful, and writing for The Cavalier Daily has empowered me to share my own stories and the stories of others.
As difficult as college was, I did not drop out, I did not give up on myself or my friends in times of need and I shared my voice at every opportunity. And that is something worth celebrating.
Whenever I list the titles I held during my time at the paper, I’m often met with surprise — or even sympathy — for taking on so much. But the truth is, it never felt like a burden.
Retirement, as you can tell, has been treating me well. When people ask me now if I miss it, I laugh and tell them some things I definitely don't miss. But I don't always get to tell them about the things I really do miss.
My time at the University was shaped by the people who showed me grace and kindness and by those who had confidence in me, even when I struggled to have it in myself.
My time here taught me to look for the genuine, human connection in every moment.
Individuals and communities can use sports to inspire, to hold space, to heal, to break molds, to change narratives, to honor faith or to come home.
I surrounded myself with people who were so enthusiastic about the University and its potential, that after a while, it was impossible not to feel their passion and their convictions rub off on me.
Advocate for yourself unabashedly, even and especially when you feel like you don’t belong.
In retirement, I am also trying not to be hard on myself — I don’t have to hold onto all the mistakes that I made as an editor.
I have seen what student journalism can do — it can highlight the marginalized, influence the majority and spark conversations.
Four years at the University have taught me what it means to make an impact despite setbacks.
