They say brevity is the key to journalistic writing, so I will keep this short. I will always be grateful for my time at The Index. I made so many meaningful connections interviewing for news articles and sharing the engaging stories of students, faculty, staff and administration at Truman State University and members of the local community. It brought so much happiness to my time in college and provided a sense of belonging like nothing else.
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I want to thank everyone who has supported and guided me through these last four years.
Emma and Reece, thank you for listening to my constant newspaper ramblings and helping deliver the occasional print newspaper; that’s more helpful than you probably think.
Erica, Francesca, Julie and Cara, your time at The Index made it a genuinely welcoming and sunny experience in every way possible. Thank you for bringing joy to the newsroom and dedication to your craft. I can’t wait to see what you all accomplish.
Beth, thank God you stuck around after that long, awkward walk to City Hall in the rain on your first day of training with me. I couldn’t have picked a better person to grow with, struggle and triumph with, and lead The Index with. Your passion for communication is inspiring, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way at Syracuse University.
Don, thank you for being my mentor through it all. When I came to Truman, I really didn’t expect a professor would know my name so quickly, but by my sophomore year I think we were meeting at least three days a week. In addition to teaching me just about everything I know about journalism — I have to give some credit to Mark Smith and Jay Self — you have shown me the utmost patience and respect as I navigated new leadership roles at The Index. Thank you for igniting my flame of journalistic curiosity as I head out into the real world of reporting.
Rachel, I can’t tell you enough how excited I am to see The Index grow and prosper under your leadership. Since your first day at The Index, I’ve been your editor, and I knew quickly you were going far. I’m so happy to have shared an office with someone as excited by and dedicated to news as you are. Good luck next year!