WHITWORTHIAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Joy Bacon

Year: Senior
Majors: Journalism and English
Minors: Spanish

Who are you?
I'm an Eastern Washington native who loves swimming in the river, singing with Kelly Clarkson and doing what I feel even if it means going against the grain. I love watching television, especially '90s sitcoms, and just hanging out with people who both support me and challenge me to be a better person.

What do you do and why is it important?
I oversee both the print and online editions of The Whitworthian. This includes managing a 14-person editorial staff and helping them with anything from story ideas to layout to staff management issues. I'm also in charge of the fiscal aspect of the paper, meaning I manage advertising and subscription revenues. Another huge part of my job is fielding comments or issues that come up because of content, whether that's feedback from administrators, students, alumni or general community members. I feel like my job is hugely important because not only am I able to help my editors and staff be successful, but I facilitate a student forum that's able to both applaud and critique our community in a healthy and open manner. I believe the freedom of speech and expression is one of the most sacred gifts to a democracy of any kind, and a true blessing in this country.

What is at least one common misconception about your work or ASWU?
Sometimes I don't think people take a step back and realize how many different pieces fit together to make The Whitworthian happen for 18 issues a year. Often if someone disagrees with a story or is unhappy with an aspect of the paper, they don't take the time to slow down and think about the process. Many times, if people understood how TheWhitworthian works, I think they would be much more willing to support its efforts. We truly do try to cover this community to the best of our abilities, while keeping journalistic ethics and news values at heart.

What is important for students to know about your work?
The Whitworthian can't be successful without the input and feedback of the Whitworth community. The more interaction we have with our audience, whether that's through letters to the editor, comments at whitworthian.com, or just general story ideas, the stronger our publication is. We can't function without the cooperation and support of our audience.