Expensive Occasions-Delphic readers,

I didn’t assume this present day would ever come. Not solely am I lastly graduating, thank goodness, however I’m writing my final article for the TD. It’s been, at occasions, a really lengthy but concurrently quick 4 years. Coming onto Drake’s campus amidst a worldwide pandemic is just not how one imagines their school expertise starting! I’m pleased with the work we’ve completed on the TD these previous couple of years. 

This yr’s protection has spanned throughout Drake’s funds points to the scholar physique and school to athletic accomplishments and failures, and extra. The TD’s intensive protection of Drake’s ongoing funds points has garnered reward from many and showcases the significance of pupil journalism. Our reporting on the College president’s pay and on the college’s muddled response to a potential gun risk spotlight why we gained the Society of Skilled Journalists Corbin Gwaltney Award for Finest All-Round Pupil Newspaper (Small) this yr. 

The way forward for the TD is vivid and I’m excited to see what comes subsequent. I do know subsequent yr’s editor-in-chief, Mack Swenson, will do a terrific job. I’ve seen how arduous they’ve labored these final three years, and I do know that the prime quality of labor will proceed.

As for me, for the reason that second I got here to Drake, I knew I wished to be Editor-in-Chief. However I didn’t assume I used to be ok. With the assistance of these on the College of Journalism and Mass Communication, I’ve grown and improved journalistically and personally. I’m grateful to have had the chance to guide the newspaper this yr.

I ask you, the reader, to remain invested within the TD. There’s plenty of essential issues taking place on our campus, and it’s by no means been extra essential to remain engaged with native information. With out you, we’d be unable to analyze the going-ons at Drake, maintain campus leaders accountable and supply truthful and clear information. You push us to do our greatest work. Thanks in your help and suggestions!

We’ve completed plenty of good and essential work, and I’d be remiss to not shout out all the employees for his or her dedication. Thanks for all of your arduous work this yr. Regardless of all being busy school college students, you all have proven a dedication to the paper — and a willingness to spend God is aware of what number of hours within the workplace — that could be very a lot appreciated and seen. The camaraderie inside the newsroom has been considered one of my favourite elements about this yr and is one thing I hope to have in my future jobs. 

I additionally need to thank everybody within the SJMC, from my professors to the buddies I made. The SJMC is in contrast to another college or division at Drake. The professors foster, encourage and push college students to be higher journalists and higher individuals. 

Lastly, on a extra private notice, to my mom: I wish to thanks for being there for me. We’ve confronted some arduous years, however by all of it, you’ve by no means faltered. You’ve been my greatest supporter, and the whole lot I do is for you.

Finest, 

Lia Reichmann 

*P.S. I’m not usually one for sentimentality, however searching for a job, being in remedy and having a private philosophy to take advantage of out of my finite life has led me to jot down this. My apologies.