“These fragments I have shored against my ruins.” – T.S. Eliot
Hello everyone and happy 2025! As I become Editor-in-Chief of a newspaper that outdates me by about 120 years, I cannot help but feel the burden of legacy in my leadership. Our paper has been a voice of truth and inspiration for generations. The Auburn Plainsman has exposed wrongful secrecies; it has been instrumental in delivering justice; and it has served as a beacon of light for the community. It has adapted with the changing times, and it has won so many awards there literally is not enough space on the wall for all the plaques and certificates.
There’s not much The Plainsman hasn't done. However, when I sit here and wonder what I can do to contribute to this organization, I realize there is something we need more of: we need more people’s perspectives. Whether breaking news or treasured memories, we need to bring these genuine, human stories to the forefront of the media.
It is through listening and reading that we are able to reach an understanding of each other and the world we share. Our society is not good at that. We do not encourage being quiet, but instead hyperfixate on being loud, blasting our truth into the web of the media and fighting to be right.
Sitting quietly listening without interrupting or arguing is not natural. However, this ability is powerful; it brings perspective. Encountering voices besides your own — especially if you do not agree with them — is one of the most valuable actions you can take. Oddly enough, humility, curiosity and respect yield the most accurate version of the truth, not debating or violently thrusting your beliefs onto someone.
I don’t believe that perception is reality, but I do believe that educating yourself with as many perspectives as possible enables you to find truth. Through a dynamic perspective, we can navigate a world that is divided, harsh and self-seeking to find spaces that are honest, varied and beautiful. I intend to wield my leadership and creativity to foster that kind of space.
To my staff: Even if it’s only a few photos, a hastily drawn graphic, a social media post or 350 words of text, the fragments of truth you communicate are vital to the wellbeing of our newspaper and, ultimately, to our world. Each contribution is a little shard of glass, and I want us to create a winsome and trustworthy mosaic throughout this semester and moving forward.
I was recently cleaning out the newsroom when I found a collection of papers from the 1960s. I apologize if you were born in the 60s, but that is O-L-D. I literally had to blow the dust off of the leatherbound book of clippings. I was coughing. It got all over my hands. It was great.
As I was sifting through the old stories, a sense of sadness but also responsibility came over me. I realized that it won't be too long before my era — our era — becomes as dusty and dated as that one. It always happens. We can tell amazing stories, win impressive awards and plaster our name everywhere, but what really matters is leaving a legacy that is honest, inspiring and strong for the next era of The Plainsman.
The legacy I want to leave is one that engages dynamic voices, works hard, uplifts others and creates a helpful and just picture of the truth. That is my goal, perspective and pledge as your next Editor-in-Chief.
Sami Grace Donnelly
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Sami Grace Donnelly, senior in English literature, began writing for the Plainsman in the fall of 2021. She has served as a columnist, writer abroad, Opinion Editor, managing editor and is now Editor-in-Chief of the Plainsman.
