Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers of the Herald,

Welcome back to campus and welcome to the Classes of 2025!

We have returned for another fall semester, one that simultaneously gives us of semblances of normalcy, but also one that firmly reminds us that we have not yet left our collective struggles behind. It is undoubtedly a huge adjustment, but nonetheless one where we can still find a sense of community, support, and passion to maintain our voices and determination on this campus. Finding that voice could not be more essential than it is now, in the wake of the shattering loss of Veronica Ashby, an inspiring young woman I knew to have one of the strongest voices out of anyone I’ve met. I only hope that we can all take the time to grieve and acknowledge the power and potential that she held within her, remembering her for that strength and channeling it into our own voices.

And that is exactly what the Herald has done and will continue to do here at HWS—maintain a strong voice for the students. As the campus adjusts to these changing, exciting, albeit frustrating times that have never been more fueled with emotion, I would like the readers of the Herald to know where our newspaper fits into this community, while also recognizing the power of using one’s voice.

Historically, the Herald has worked to challenge perceptions on campus through reportage of the truth. We have confronted issues related to Sodexo, racial and gender injustices, the influence of the Rising Panthers and student initiatives, COVID (of course), while also highlighting the light shone upon this campus by students and staff who make it the community that it is and has the potential to become. A voice for the students means a voice that works truthfully, fervently, and relentlessly to report on the issues that matter to this community—meaning we only encourage those who may be reluctant to recognize the weight that their work and voice may carry, within the Herald team or not.

The past year and a half have exhausted this community beyond measure. What I continue to witness as a journalist and student is a fire that will not extinguish, a fight to speak up that will not relinquish. What we have endured here is no small feat. Those we have grieved will not disappear, so long as we remind ourselves what we can do to keep them alive and proud in our hearts.

If you see injustice, say something. Write something. Do something. The Herald will be here to capture those moments, to hear your words loud or quiet, and to seek the truth for all. We cannot forget that we are a community full of bright, kind, determined people, and those with the loudest voices must lift up those whose voices have been historically brushed under the rug, walked upon and disregarded. There is much more to be done, so let your voice be heard.

Sincerely,

Ani Freedman

Editor-in-Chief of the Herald

In addition: Please look to next month’s issue of the Herald for a special tribute to Veronica Ashby, highlighting the light that she was and the beauty of her personality from the perspectives of those who were touched by her presence. This will also be posted to the Herald website as soon as it is put together. We will always remember you and your vibrant charisma, Veronica. 15