To the WSU Vancouver community,
I am writing to you in this end-of-the-year “letter in review,” as we publish our very last issue to close out the semester. Stepping into the role as The VanCougar’s managing editor has been quite the learning experience for me, and it will be difficult to leave this position as the next incoming academic year approaches. Although this is the case, I am proud to announce that I will continue to serve WSU Vancouver in the fall as your new editor-in-chief – a role I have wanted to fulfill after writing my very first article as a reporter in 2019.
I have learned from the best of the best, as my fellow coworkers and I have navigated difficult trials without the help of an adviser, something that has been extremely strenuous, but informative to say the least. Despite this, I would like to publicly implore the university to get its student media presence back on track by providing additional support, resources and avenues for encouraging student engagement. As someone who has moved through several job positions with The VanCougar, I have seen our determined team of people stop at nothing to keep our magazine alive and thriving amidst all the challenges we have faced.
Throughout 2021 and 2022, I have learned the importance of transparency and hard work. I have seen my team ebb and flow by navigating seas of immense change, yet still persisting with level heads above stormy water even in the face of uncertainty — the mark of good, if not great journalism. My team and I have worked with what we have, and still managed to find the most amazing scoops on campus and around the community to share with all of you. I must commend The VanCougar reporters especially for writing about the issues that matter, including but not limited to – the COVID-19 pandemic, the recent war on Ukraine, climate change, mental health and major social justice issues. Even though the weight of the world bears down on all of us in this day and age, I can also appreciate the special moments we have had the privilege to share, as we still focus on the optimism and beauty that can be found on every corner of campus – the ways writing, arts and culture can change lives, where to find places to appreciate the natural world, reviews of recipes and restaurants to enjoy with those closest to you and perspective-shifting interviews.
I am incredibly excited to lead such a special team of people next year, and cannot wait to see what kind of new and diverse stories we will publish. I can guarantee, as our mission statement implies, The VanCougar will continue to inform and engage with the community “practicing the highest standards of timely, ethical journalism.” With the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics in mind and an AP Style guide in my back pocket, I look forward to what next term has to offer.
As always, we welcome constructive feedback, story submissions, op-ed pieces and letters to the editor sent to van.vc.editor@wsu.edu pertaining to our organization and affairs happening in and around the community — The VanCougar always wants to hear from you. We also encourage existing and incoming students to apply for our open reporter, photographer and social media manager positions over the summer on Coug Presence. We are eager to resume operations and see you all back on campus in the fall!
Best regards,
2021/2022 Managing Editor
Olivia Eldredge
Olivia is a senior studying English at WSU Vancouver.