Leaving a legacy of transparent media, fair reporting

MADISON JACKSON, Evergreen editor-in-chief

Today marks my last day as editor-in-chief of The Daily Evergreen.

At times, I never thought I would make it here, or predict the feelings this sentence stirs up.

It’s bittersweet to be sure. The experiences I had while in this office are priceless. The people I met and the relationships I built will last a lifetime. Even with all the ups and downs, the small victories and losses, we did what we set out to do — serve the students and our community.

But I’m also happy. I’m happy that the Evergreen and marketing department has secured the Office of Student Media funding for continuing print. I’m happy that future editors and future reporters, columnists and photographers will have the same opportunities I had.

This semester was one where the future of Student Media depended on the current editors. It was a huge, rather unfair task given to us by our direct administration.

It was a task we took head-on. It was a thought-out, group effort to remind everyone of why we did what we did and that nothing would stop us from holding those in positions of power accountable. It also reminded the students to hold us accountable.

And we won. Even through all the hardship we faced to get here, the Evergreen can continue to serve the students as it should: five days a week. To the undergraduate students who voted for us, thank you for your support.

To those who voted against us, or didn’t vote at all, let us know what we can do to improve your experience as a reader.

My successor, current Sports Editor Dylan Greene, will carry on our tradition of transparent, fair reporting.

Like I said earlier in the semester, never fear to reach out to the Evergreen, even for something that may seem small. Critique us, but remember we’re students too. Remember that there are always positions here — positions anyone from any major can fill.

Without the student body, the Evergreen would look drastically different going into next semester. We would not be where we are today without you. So thank you. From everyone at the Evergreen, thank you.

It was a wild ride, WSU. I can’t wait to see what happens next.