My journey with the Northern Iowan started in August 2020. It was my first week on campus as a freshman and I was still trying to figure out life as a college student when I saw an email. Colin Horning, the then-Sports Editor for the NI, reached out and asked me if I would be interested in writing for the sports team. I was immediately interested, and before long had been hired as a Sports Writer. After two years on the writing staff, I stepped into the role of Sports Editor after Colin graduated. Throughout my time at the NI, and this year as Sports Editor in particular, has been an experience that I’ll never forget.

I have countless people to be thankful to as this journey comes to an end. First of all, I have to say thanks to Colin. His email and deciding to give me a shot on the sports team is what started this entire journey. My first semester on staff, when Colin and I were constantly trying to fill the sports page despite all sports being cancelled due to COVID-19, was a particularly memorable start to my time at the NI.

I also have to thank the rest of the outstanding editorial staff that has helped lead the NI to one of its best years in recent memory. Our Executive Editor, Nixson Benitez, has been the one leading the way throughout the past couple of years. Managing Editor Emma Koehler has also done outstanding work that oftentimes can go unnoticed, but without which the NI could not function. Lanie Weber joined the team as Social Media Manager this year, and during her time has helped guide the NI’s social media presence to new heights. Spanish Editor Karina Ortiz and Campus Life Editor Diamond Roundtree have both been phenomenal contributors to the NI’s success, always putting together outstanding content on their sections. And of course, I have to give a shoutout to my favorite redheads, News Editor Mallory Schmitz and Copy Editor Sophie Hoffmeier. More importantly than your outstanding work, the two of you have been the cause of a lot of laughter in the office, and the NI is fortunate to have you both coming back next year.

I also need to thank my writing team. Caden Shea, Drew Hill, Adam Johnson, Ben Lahart and Braden Elton have put together outstanding articles and worked hard to produce top notch content. In particular, I want to wish Caden the best of luck as the next Sports Editor. Caden was fantastic in his two years as a Sports Writer, and I have no doubt that will carry over as he steps into the editor role.

As one chapter of my life draws to a close, I am so thankful to all of those that made my time with the Northern Iowan enjoyable. This is a special student organization that does important work. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment to be a part of something bigger than yourself. Last November, the NI celebrated 130 years of existence. During that time, countless standout journalists have come and gone, many going on to have great careers in the professional journalism world. My three years on staff and one year as an editor doesn’t mean a whole lot in the grand scheme of 130 years. However, if I have been able to positively impact the Northern Iowan in a way that helps it be in a better position for the next 130 years, then I have done my job.