The end of my tenure as Editor-in-Chief of the greatest little newspaper in the world, our beloved Catalyst, has finally come. I started my position in extraordinary circumstances: Working entirely online in the middle of a pandemic was not always the easiest, or most fun, job to have. But nevertheless, the entire Catalyst staff and I pushed through to create the best possible content we could, and I believe that we did a wonderful job with every single issue.

When I came into NDB as a freshman, I did not think twice about pursuing journalism. My time was consumed by volleyball, piano, community service, and homework. The following year, my passion for journalism was discovered and I have not been able to part from it since. Serving the positions of Arts & Life Co-Editor, Managing Editor and Editor-in-Chief have been some of the most thrilling, challenging, and rewarding experiences of my life.

I would like to thank every member of the Journalism program here at NDB, but specifically, those who took a chance on me and trusted me to fulfill my responsibilities. To Johana Ligtenberg and Michelle Kleytman for deciding to give some random sophomore a place on the editorial staff. To Parker Daley, for advocating for me to become your Managing Editor. And most importantly, to Mr. Robert Rojas for guiding me every step of the way and serving as my constant support system.

My departure from The Catalyst is incredibly bittersweet. On one hand, my love for this staff and our bi-weekly news discussions will be sorely missed. But on the other, I have the opportunity to continue pursuing my love for journalism in college and beyond. Next year, I will be headed off to the University of California, Berkeley, where I will minor in journalism and hopefully write for the Daily Californian.

Finally, a word to Peyton Daley, my successor: I have no doubt that you will do an incredible job managing our staff and fulfilling the legacy left by your older sister. I am sure you will build on the foundation built by past Editors-in-Chief and turn it into something uniquely your own.

Finally, thank you to all of our readers. Your love and support keep The Catalyst alive and running, and I could not be more grateful for your loyalty. You have enabled me to discover and pursue my life’s passion for journalism.

Peace out, NDB!