After seven years with The Advocate, a total of nine with the company, I will be saying goodbye to all my friends and colleagues that I have grown to love over the years. The past nine years have truly been amazing.
I first came to the company two weeks after graduating college, borderline terrified to be joining the daily copy desk. Over the next couple years I gained confidence through experience, and eventually was placed in charge of two weeklies, which then became three and then four.
I have met some of the most amazing people I could ever imagine at my job, and have made some lifelong friends – some who have become more like family over the years. Despite having countless amazing memories, there are certain aspects of the past nine years that stick out to me.
I am lucky to have known Joe Eagle, the best copy editor and friend I could have asked for. I miss him every day and will continue to take his kind words and advice with me throughout my life.
I am so amazingly grateful to Patti Ritter and Jim Lee, the two I learned the most from during my time here. They were patient, supportive and encouraging: Three of the most important qualities in a great leader.
To my employees both current and past, thank you for all of your hard work. You stuck with me through good times and bad, and we put out products that I am so unbelievably proud of. We told people's stories, gave them a place to shine and informed.
To all of you who have let us tell your stories: Thank you. I couldn't have done this without you and I am truly honored to have gotten to know you over the years.
And the biggest thank you to our readers. Every time you came up to me at an event or called me and said that you loved our paper meant something to me and I appreciate that. Sometimes you get lost in the day-to-day shuffle and wonder if what you are doing matters. To the readers that reminded me that it did, I am eternally grateful.
I have said it countless times during my time here: This was the best job I could have hoped for. I was given opportunities to grow, which made me who I am today. I am very excited for my job, and I know I will have a wonderful future in this field because of the work I was able to do here. Thank you.