Originally published on 5.14.22

Whether you’re a returning student, faculty or staff member picking this paper up as part of your weekly routine, or a fresh face joining the campus community, this welcome is for you. Thank you for taking the time to get reacquainted with us or choosing to get introduced for the first time.  

My name is Noah Kurkjian, and I will be taking over as Editor in Chief for the Torch through the 2022-23 school year, and I am elated. I am embarking on my senior year in the journalism and technical communication program and my third year with the Torch.

I got my start in journalism by accident. I was building my schedule for my junior year of high school and ran into hard times when it came to filling my third-hour slot for the final trimester. All that was left was mythology and writing for print media. I took a gamble on writing for print media, and the rest is just about history.

Stepping into that class, I quickly learned that not only did I love digging up the dirt for a story, but I loved the craft behind telling it to an audience. I was also blessed with a fantastic educator who realized my potential and pushed me to do well. Ms. Szpieg, since you’re likely reading this, thank you.