Letter from the Editor

Goodbye Colonnade, thanks for the memories

There are only a few moments in your life when you realize things will never be the same—this is one of those times.

No longer will I spend Wednesday nights hidden away in a concrete bunker under the dining hall. No longer will I answer texts and phone calls from writers at ungodly hours. No longer will I be Editor-in-Chief of The Colonnade.

When I inherited the paper last semester, I honestly had no idea if I would crash and burn or if I would even enjoy being the head honcho.

I started off at the paper being shoved into a Colonnade meeting and meekly volunteering for a story. Two short years later and I’m writing a sign-off column. It’s amazing how much can happen in such a little time.

During this past year I have faced many trials, but I have also been rewarded with many triumphs. I’ve made some enemies, but I’ve also made friends I will keep for life.

With 23 Wednesday nights (24 after this one) under our belts, The Colonnade staff has become my family. Katelyn Hebert, the News Editor, has taught me how to be a better person both when dealing with others, as well as the environment. Mandy Boddy, the Features Editor, has shown me how to stop and smell the roses—or look at videos of giraffes.Scotty Thompson, the Sports Editor, has continuously shocked me with his work ethic, loyalty and dedication to The Colonnade and his friends.

Drake Simons, the Photo Editor, has shared numerous stories of his life—stories I will remember long after my diploma’s ink fades. Rebecca Burns, the Designer, has amazed me with the things she’s able to quickly and beautifully create under pressure. Claire Childs, the Ad Manager, has constantly been my devil’s advocate and, at the same time, biggest supporter.

When I walk out of this newsroom tonight it will be the end of my college-newspaper career. I’m proud of what I’ve done this year, and I wouldn’t trade my experiences for anything in the world. Working for The Colonnade has been an experience, a struggle, and—yes—even a blast.

I leave you in extremely capable hands. My successor, Bobbi Otis, will lead The Colonnade to even more success next year. Bobbi emerged out of practically nowhere and worked harder than anyone else to prove herself. She has a drive that I haven’t seen in anyone that’s ever worked for the paper. I personally promise you that she will work vigilantly to bring you the best campus coverage.

I also leave you with an experienced staff, many who have been at The Colonnade for at least a year.

As this chapter of my life closes, I want to thank you—the reader—for always being there.

I always smile when I pass someone laughing at the Public Safety Reports or arguing with a friend over a controversial article.

I am so proud of what I—WE—have done this year at The Colonnade.

I am so thankful for the opportunities and memories of this year.

The Colonnade has been my life, my home, my family and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Sincerely

Matt Chambers

Posted by Matt Chambers on Apr 28 2011. Filed under Opinion, Our Voice. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.