"

Honored. Fortunate. Excited.

As I reflect on the last 12 months of my term as editor-in-chief of Scholastic, these three words define the incredible experience of leading this historic magazine.

I cannot help but acknowledge how honored I am to be part of the rich tradition of Scholastic and contribute a piece to its continually growing legacy. Every corner of this university holds a vast array of time-honored traditions and, while witnessing them grow and evolve is special in and of itself, the opportunity to immerse myself in one of them was nothing short of remarkable.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am an incredibly passionate sports fan, including, for the rest of my life, of the Fighting Irish. So I was extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to cover Notre Dame football games in four different states. Watching the Irish from press boxes — especially inside Yankee Stadium for this past season’s Shamrock Series game in New York — was a dream come true. Meeting so many media icons and learning from them was such a blessing, one which I will never forget.

Speaking of unforgettable, the team with whom I’ve produced this past year’s issues has been a group of champions. The late nights — which often became very early mornings — spent working in Duncan Student Center would have been significantly less successful (and, frankly, much less enjoyable) were it not for the dedicated group that cares so much about the quality of journalism that Scholastic produces. I am so very excited to see the future of Scholastic; trust me, I will be leaving this publication in very capable hands.

It’s impossible to thank everyone who has impacted my term as editor-in-chief of Scholastic, but here’s an attempt. To my staff, who immediately united as a cohesive unit and never ceased to produce incredible work; to Our Lady’s University, for providing me an avenue to explore a passion, develop a craft and experience so many awe-inspiring moments; and to my family (Hi Mom!) for making this even remotely possible.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not extend one note of gratitude to the most integral member of Scholastic: our adviser and fearless leader, Bob Franken, class of 1969. I’ve quoted Coach Holtz before, but I’ll do it again, with a slight twist: For those who know Bob Franken, no explanation is necessary. For those who don’t, none will suffice. Bob has been our first reference for finding contacts in the administration to provide insight on stories, our counselor and fire extinguisher (personal experience) when we have found ourselves in difficult situations and, above all, a mentor in our journalistic endeavors. Nothing we do would be remotely possible if not for Bob’s guidance, advice and support.

So enjoy your retirement, Bob. The appreciation that Notre Dame and Scholastic have for you is impossible to encapsulate completely, even for those who know you best, so I’ll offer the only words that can come close to being enough: Thank you.

And of course, many thanks to all of the loyal readers of Scholastic. We thoroughly enjoy producing this magazine and appreciate your constant support.

Now and forever, Go Irish!

 

Sincerely,
Juan José Rodriguez