While the feeling still hasn’t quite set in for me, I’m excited to become the new Editor-in-Chief for The Trend. I look forward to leading our organization and supplying USAO’s campus and community with quality news and engaging stories to read.
My journey up to this point has been long and glorious, as I have been a part of The Trend’s staff since January of 2022. My experiences that I’ve had with this newspaper have defined who I would become at USAO. My third article with The Trend won first place in the reviews section at the Oklahoma Collegiate Media Association Conference in 2023. My fifth article sparked my passion for ultimate frisbee, as I eventually became the club’s president.
I’ve hosted DroverTalk podcast episodes, completed two journalism internships, and have many more accolades I could discuss. However, I know that is not why you are all here. You’re curious about how I will lead The Trend and the mission that I will provide for it. Well, I’d say you’re in luck as I’m ecstatic to announce my vision during my time as Editor-in-Chief.
My first plan has already been set in motion, as I’ve revamped our leadership team. Previously, it was former Editor-in-Chief Emily Loughridge and I as the only editorial staff for The Trend. Now, I’ve expanded our editorial staff to five different positions and placed our new editors. The following is who I’ve put in the roles.
- Cassie Srock: News Editor
- Matthew Yokum: Sports Editor
- Thomas Buchanan: Entertainment Editor
- Whitley Brown: Feature Editor
I’ve expanded this editorial staff for a couple of reasons; I look forward to motivating our staff, promoting more articles and content to be produced, and providing a foundation for more individuals to become involved once my time with The Trend is done. I believe this model will promote more leadership opportunities and provide an easier method for our staff to learn the importance of journalism.
With these changes in leadership style, I believe that we will continue to be efficient in posting quality content. This model should promote less stress on each member of the editorial staff, as it gives each person their own section to work on. I look forward to leading this group of editors, as they’re talented and passionate about being in these positions.
Before I conclude my first editor’s note, I must give my gratitude to everyone who set me up to become Editor-in-Chief. I am grateful for my internship experiences, our writing staff, and everyone who has helped me in this journey. I’m extremely thankful for our faculty advisor Dr. J.C. Casey for putting the trust in me to be in this position and teaching me the values of journalism and communication along the way.
Most of all, I know I would have not been in this spot if it wasn’t for Loughridge. Her dedication to The Trend truly motivated me to step up and become the next captain of this ship. Loughridge has been patient and thorough in showing me the steps toward becoming an effective communicator and leader. Without her presence, I know I would not be the same person that I am today, and for that, I’m forever grateful.
Once again, I’m very proud to be the next Editor-in-Chief and I look forward to seeing each and every one of you reading our articles and supporting The Trend.
Gary Jackson is a fourth-year communication major at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.
