Letter from the Editor: Here’s to staying local

Roots editor excited to cover local businesses, community members

Madysen+McLain+will+be+the+Roots+editor+for+summer+and+fall+2020.

LAUREN PETTIT

Madysen McLain will be the Roots editor for summer and fall 2020.

MADYSEN MCLAIN, Evergreen roots editor

My journey with The Daily Evergreen began in August 2018. I didn’t think an informational meeting and a chance to get free pizza would quickly turn into an experience I would never forget. 

Since then, I have written for the news section, helped lead a section as deputy news editor, and wrote for Roots. I have been able to enhance my writing skills as well as create life-long friendships along the way.

I am now going into my senior year as an Edward R. Murrow College of Communication student. I thought, ‘What better way to challenge myself than to lead the Roots section?’ I’m excited to spend my summer and fall doing just that. 

When I think of summer vacation, I think of spending time at the pool, eating disastrous amounts of ice cream, and putting any thought of school on the back burner. This summer will be different. 

As Roots editor, I hope to serve the WSU and Pullman community by providing balanced coverage of business developments and residents who have interesting stories to tell. As always, I hope to give those who historically had no voice a chance to tell their story. Being a good journalist lends itself to being a good storyteller. 

I grew up in a rural area – even smaller than Pullman – where I was taught the importance of staying connected to my community. In my hometown, Hunters, Washington, the 300 residents and I didn’t have a local newspaper. I could only find local happenings on Facebook and social media. The lack of community reporting led me to appreciate The Daily Evergreen and all other local newspapers. 

Looking to the future, I’m excited to continue coverage of businesses whether they’re beginning or ending, advice columns, and my personal favorite – features on community members. I think it’s important to keep those in administration accountable, but it’s just as important to recognize those making an effort to make Pullman a better place. 

For those reading this, if you know a friend, family member or co-worker that has something extraordinary about them, feel free to email me. Have a great summer!