At my first media fair as a freshman, I sheepishly approached The Daily Orange’s table alone, signed the interest form and walked away — too nervous to say a word.

I wouldn’t muster the courage to take my first assignment for another year.

Now, two in-house semesters and 112 bylines later, I can confidently say putting my name on that piece of paper was the best decision I’ve made during college. The D.O. gave me countless formative reporting opportunities, unforgettable memories and, most importantly, incredible friendships. I only wish we had gotten to spend more time together.

Though this job wasn’t easy, it was worth every second. As I say goodbye to 230 Euclid Ave., I find it difficult to express how much this paper means to me. So, simply put — thank you, for everything; I wouldn’t be who I am today without The D.O.

Stephanie Wright: I’ve never told you this explicitly, but I look up to you more than anyone else in the house. To me, you’ve always been the epitome of a good journalist. Every day, I strived to emulate your leadership, tact and kindness. Thank you for being an incredible mentor. I hope our paths cross again someday!

Cooper Andrews: I still can’t believe you’re not a senior; your confidence as a leader and reporter are far beyond your years. Don’t forget me when you’re incredibly successful! And thank you for teaching me it’s OK to use contractions (which I learned much later than I care to admit).

Cassandra Roshu: I forgive you for thinking I was a freshman for most of the spring 2024 semester. On a more serious note, I’ll always remember the pure joy you brought to The D.O. I could always count on you to bring a smile to my day. ¡Diviértete en Santiago!

Kendall Luther: Throughout this semester, I’ve been guided by the mantra, “What would Kendall do?” You showed me everything a news editor should be — while never letting anyone see you waver. Meeting the standard you set sometimes felt impossible, but I hope I made you proud. Looking forward to our post-news-editor debrief.

Duncan Green: I’ve said this to you before, and I’ll say it again: I knew since the moment that you DMed me before your first coverage as a contributor that you would go far in this section. You possess such a natural gift for leadership and a journalistic tenacity that I deeply admire; I couldn’t have asked for a better successor. Remember to trust yourself — you’ve got this!

Kate Jackson: I know you were hesitant about joining news, but I’m so grateful you did! Your contributions to the section’s editorial content and the overall newsroom vibes were invaluable; I could always count on your work. I forgive you for playing Zach Bryan in my newsroom (maybe country music isn’t all bad).

Delia Rangel: I’m so proud of the quality work you’ve produced this fall; you’ve grown into one of our most dependable and hardworking writers. I’ll always remember our weekly Dancing With The Stars watch parties and blasting “We Bring the BOOM!” on my speaker. News is lucky to have you back.

Roxanne Boychuk: I was so relieved when you decided to stay in-house this semester. Your reliability and hard work made managing a largely new news staff so much easier. I’ll miss sharing laughs with you and reminiscing about our past D.O. memories. I’m so glad we got to work together again.

Henry Daley: Though you joined us later than the rest of this semester’s staff, your arrival immediately livened up our section. Your energy and commitment to The D.O. are infectious, and I’m so happy you joined our team! You’re now safe from me discreetly sending everything you say in #overheard-in-house … for now.

Madeline Goodheart: To be honest, I was nervous about hiring someone who had never written for us before. But, when I edited your first story, all my doubts disappeared. Your reporting skills and digital work have only improved since then. Looking forward to being just your sorority sister, not your boss, for a semester.

Zaara Malik: Seeing your growth since I first read your work as a contributor while I was an assistant has been such a joy. You always impressed me with how you brought so much energy and laughter to the newsroom while staying completely dedicated to your work. I’m excited to see what you’ll do next!

Rose Boehm: It’s been a pleasure getting closer to you. I couldn’t have asked for a better fellow head editor/JNL345 confidant. I can’t wait to see your next steps — and sit next to you at Newhouse graduation.

Zak Wolf and Kaia Wirth: I’m so grateful for you two — you’re both incredibly talented. As the least experienced head-ed, I’ve always appreciated your consistent kindness and help. We’ll make that end-of-semester Margs trip happen someday.

Lars Jendruschewitz and Solange Jain: Thanks for putting up with me nearly missing selects and assigning last-minute coverages — while nonetheless delivering outstanding work! I couldn’t have asked for better in-house neighbors.

Lucía Santoro-Veléz and Cole Ross: I wish I had a fraction of your talent. Thanks for always elevating our stories (Election Guide was unforgettable) and letting me hide in vis from time to time!

Spring ‘24 news staff: My first semester with you all was truly unforgettable. Being with such a talented and joyful team made me so excited to come to work every day.

Spring ‘25 news staff: You guys are going to do amazing, I can already tell! Remember to keep working hard and always be on the lookout for stories. But don’t forget to have fun.

Family and friends: I’m sorry for how often I went MIA because of my D.O. work or whipped out my laptop in the middle of hanging out to edit something for news. Your constant support and patience mean the world to me. I love y’all.

Goodbye, for now. Love you always!

Published on December 12, 2024 at 11:14 pm

Contact Julia: jmboehni@syr.edu