Dear Readers,
Where do I begin! This semester has been nothing short of an incredible experience, serving as one of The Quadrangle’s editors-in-chief and playing a role in keeping student journalism alive here at Manhattan University. Now, as we have finally approached the last issue of the semester, today serves as a bittersweet moment for me. One part of me is beyond proud of all of the hard work and dedication our staff has put into this publication over the past few months, allowing for us to share the stories of the campus community with you all. The other half of me is deeply saddened by the fact that this is my last ever issue, not only as editor-in-chief, but with The Quadrangle entirely.
As graduation is only a short few weeks away, my time with The Quadrangle has come to an end [I give my sentimental little spiel in the Senior Farewells page]. But what I will say here is that I am forever grateful for this opportunity, and for my amazing staff trusting me with this role. All the late nights I spent editing were 100% worth it, and I am forever honored. This publication gave me my first-ever experience being able to truly express my passion for journalism, and for that I will always owe everything to The Quad. So once again – to our staff and to our readers, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
While my time here feels cut short, my lovely co-EIC, Barbara Vasquez, will take over, now, as a singular entity. I have not even a glimpse of doubt that she will do anything but great things with this publication, and I am so excited to see what she accomplishes.
Shifting gears, I am so excited to announce that this semester, our special issue theme is “The Change Issue” as seen on the cover. Through this theme, we hope to highlight many of the changes that MU has been through over generations, as the school was founded in 1853. Additionally, we are bringing you all issue 13 alongside a special issue, which is filled with a multitude of captivating stories and information. Make sure to check out our “Quad 10,” where we highlight the top ten most influential seniors on campus, as well as our “Senior Farewells,” where you can find yourself getting emotional [like me] over the last words our Quad seniors have to say before graduating.
Now — I have to recognize The Quadrangle’s faculty advisor, Thom Gencarelli, who has played a vital role in making this publication and the journalism concentration as a whole what it is today. Here, we have yet another bittersweet moment, where this issue also serves as Thom’s very last issue with The Quad, as he is now going into retirement. Thom — we are so grateful for you. Thank you for believing in us, and being so passionate about student journalism, as well as recognizing the need for it. Your contributions toward The Quad will always be remembered. You can read more about Thom’s impact on the campus community in our news section, where Maddie Rosado did an excellent job of highlighting his legacy.
Readers, it’s been great. I hope you all continue to keep up with The Quad, as will I. While “change” seems to be the inevitable factor in everything we discussed today, one thing will always remain the same, and that’s that student journalism isn’t just a record of what happens here — it’s how we make this place mean something.
