In January 2023, my time in-house at The Daily Orange began rather untraditionally — a Freshman assistant news editor? It raised some eyebrows.

Now, in May 2024, I find myself writing this duck from the steps of Hendricks Chapel as I conclude my time at The D.O. much like how it began — untraditionally.

It is difficult for me to put my love and gratitude into words, but The D.O. has undeniably changed my life. I would not be the person or writer I am today without the beautiful people who fill 230 Euclid.

This is a farewell for now, but the impact of The D.O. and the invaluable knowledge I gained will stick with me forever.

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Kyle Chouinard: While I initially found your meticulous edits of my Student Association stories intimidating as a freshman, I now feel privileged to consider you both a mentor and a true friend. Your unwavering positivity and dedication have played a pivotal role in the paper’s success. Thank you for trusting me with the News section and for always making time for my silly visits to the management office. I appreciate you always holding my staff and me to the highest standard. Your four years at SU have left an indelible mark, and your contributions to The D.O. and the Syracuse community will be remembered fondly. I eagerly await our brunches at Matt’s Big Breakfast this summer in AZ.

Anish Vasudevan: My genuine goal in life is to be like you. You have handled all the challenges this job, especially news, has inevitably thrown you with grace. Thank you for transforming The D.O. into a place I looked forward to working every evening. Your support has meant the world to me, and while I’ll miss seeing your face in Food.com, I’m excited to witness your future successes.

Stephanie Wright: Where do I even begin? Thank you for everything. Your leadership and friendship have been a guiding light during my time at The D.O. You’ve set a standard for professionalism while transforming the newsroom into a fun, healthy environment. It’s been an honor to continue the work you’ve championed. Your dedication to the paper never fails to inspire me, and I have every bit of confidence for your reign as EIC. Never forget the impact you’ve had on us all. I’m honored to call you one of my closest friends.

Stef Mitchell: Being able to work closer with you this semester has been a highlight for me. Thank you for putting up with my late-night panic tweet revisions and late coverages. Enjoy your retirement — you deserve it!

Dominic Chiappone: During my campus tour in April 2022, I was shocked when you listed all your involvements. I vividly recall turning to my dad and saying, “I want to be just like him.” Two years later, your unparalleled work ethic continues to leave me in awe. I’ve yet to encounter someone more deserving of every accolade and reward that comes their way. Thank you for being not only my floor buddy but also for graciously allowing me to raid your Cheerios stash. As graduation approaches, please prioritize some much-needed rest. I’m practically begging you. I’ll miss you dearly.

Julia Boehning: Witnessing your growth this semester has been truly inspiring. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for all you’ve contributed. As you step into the role of news editor, I have complete confidence in your ability to elevate this section to new levels. While this job can be demanding and often frustrating, it’s also incredibly rewarding. Remember to breathe and trust in your capabilities — you’ve got this.

Ahna Fleming: Sometimes you meet someone and it’s an immediate connection. That’s Ahna. Your presence in the newsroom has always been a light, and your talent for bringing stories to life and giving voices to the voiceless is remarkable. I’ve cherished every moment collaborating with you, whether we were tackling an over 2,000-word story or being silly in our “giggle chairs.” Thanks for making my time as news editor so special. The section is so lucky to have you for another semester.

Claire Samstag: Working with you has been an absolute pleasure. I couldn’t be prouder of the stories you’ve told, and the growth you’ve demonstrated as an assistant. Your presence in the newsroom always brought a smile to my face. Thank you for making me laugh, whether it was repeating “can’t be bleh” over 60 times or giving courtesy to vending machines. I’m excited to see what you do next.

Samantha Olander: Sammy, you’re incredible. From our COM 107 days, where I affectionately knew you as “ketchup girl,” to our year of collaboration at The D.O., you’ve made this past year so memorable. Your skills as a reporter are unparalleled, and I wholeheartedly believe you can handle any challenge that comes your way. I always admired your reporting last semester, and having the opportunity to edit your work this semester was an honor. I’m deeply grateful for the remarkable pieces you consistently delivered to the section.

Roxanne Boychuk: From covering Student Association meetings to President Joe Biden’s visit, our adventures together will always stick with me. Thank you for always being someone I could rely on, both as a friend and a writer. Your contributions have played an integral role in shaping the news section into what it is today, and I’m eagerly anticipating the stories you’ll produce next semester. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you and rest assured, I’ll always be eagerly awaiting your next byline.

Griffin Uribe Brown: Behold, the hero of the news section! The things you have accomplished in your first semester have been nothing short of incredible. Your innate talent for journalism shines, regardless of the section, and your contributions to the newsroom have been profound. Enjoy your time abroad! I know The D.O. will be excited to welcome you back.

Faith Bolduc: Your passion for all of your commitments and activities inspires me. I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors and look forward to seeing what you accomplish.

Cooper Andrews and Cassandra Roshu: You’re both going to be outstanding in your new roles. It’s been great getting to know both of you and seeing you grow as journalists. The new staff is lucky to have the two of you as their fearless leaders. I know it might feel overwhelming, but trust me, you have what it takes to lead and report with excellence. The future of The D.O. is bright.

Bridget Overby: Thank you for being my comfort person. Your presence in the house was a constant source of motivation for me, and I was so lucky to be your neighbor. In my opinion, you have single-handedly saved print journalism.

Kelly and Olivia: Being a head-ed would not have been the same without both of you. I loved hearing your ideas and witnessing the dedication you put into your respective sections. Thank you for making this semester so special. Please keep in touch!

Cindy Zhang: I’m so happy we grew so close this semester! Whether it was trauma bonding about CHE 113 or giggling during Wednesday print nights, you made my days brighter and my nights way more fun. You’re so talented at everything you do and never fail to amaze me. I’ll miss seeing your face at the house. Please be my formal date forever!

Lucía Santoro-Vélez and Cole Ross: Thank you for always welcoming me as an honorary member of Vis with open arms – and cotton candy ice cream! Please never forget the importance of the work you do. So proud of you both!

Maxine Brackbill and Lars Jendruschewitz: Your contributions to the visuals of this paper have, and will continue to be, extraordinary. Maxine, thank you for always ensuring we have strong, beautiful photos, no matter how late the coverage. Lars, you are a true talent and I can’t wait to see all you accomplish as photo editor.

Jana Seal: Thank you for all you taught me during our semester together. I would not be the editor or the writer I am today without your trust in me.

Claire Harrison: I cannot thank you enough for your support as I assumed the news editor position. You mean so much to me, and I am still amazed by how gracefully you manage to juggle all you do. I can’t wait to see you soon.

My dad and my friends: Thank you for putting up with me talking about The D.O. every second of every day. I know you all are excited to never hear those initials again. Don’t worry, I will (hopefully) find a new personality trait. I am forever grateful for your support. Thank you for taking the time to read my stories. It means more than you know.
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You have all my love. Goodnight news!

Published on May 6, 2024 at 11:45 am

Contact Kendall: kaluther@syr.edu