A letter from The Hub's new managing editor

In my first quarter of college, I bought a magnet from a gift shop in town. In multicolored print on a black background, it said:

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Ghandi

It hung on my mini-fridge throughout college, moved with me to Springfield, and still has a prominent spot on our kitchen fridge today, almost 20 years later.

When I became a journalist and started my career right here in Springfield, I felt determined that reporting the truth always came with a strong sense of responsibility to serve the community for which I was writing.

Jump forward to 2020 – the year everyone declared would be theirs. And here, in the beginning of April, we’re all nowhere we thought we’d be. The term COVID-19 is now at the forefront of our minds. Many of us are busy sheltering in place, working from home, spending more time with our families than we’d ever expected, figuring out online learning and social distancing, and more.

For me, I’ve been fortunate enough to jump into my new role as the managing editor of The Hub, Springfield’s newest publication. If this is your first visit – welcome – I sincerely hope you’ll be back for more. More insight into community revitalization. More stories about innovative entrepreneurs. More solutions-based journalism that covers what’s next for the Champion City.

In just the past few weeks as I’ve started writing for The Hub and learning to tackle my role as managing editor, I’ve found myself in awe of the resiliency of our community. We have new businesses that have stepped up to the challenge of helping to deliver food to people who, for health reasons, shouldn’t leave their homes. We have familiar restaurants that have revamped what they offer and how they offer it to keep food on our tables and paychecks coming to their employees. We have neighbors more determined than ever to help their neighbors.

I’m thankful — maybe weirdly — to be taking on this opportunity in a time where things are disrupted and a little uncomfortable. I’m excited to see what comes next for Springfield and communities across Clark County. I can’t wait to witness the grit, drive, and determination that have propelled our community forward so many times before.

When I see my little square magnet stuck on the fridge every day, it means more now than ever. I look forward to taking this journey with you and striving to continue to “be the change.”