I figured it fitting that my weekly column on media literacy fell on Valentine’s Day. This ensures that I have the space to thank you, our readership, for all that you do to make the Iowa State Daily better.

I’ve had the privilege of working for the Iowa State Daily for four years. In that time period, I’ve had a lot of late nights, early mornings and many, many meetings. I’ve learned that the best way to do my job, as both an editor and student, is to live by Google Calendar.

As a reporter, I’ve attended heated meetings about uncomfortable issues. On the flip, I’ve attended joyful and heartwarming events where I wished that I could take off my journalistic hat and participate.

In leadership positions, I’ve learned how to handle conflict. I’ve learned the importance of my role and the influence it can have.

I’ve also learned so much from you — our reader — about what you like, don’t like and how you think we can improve as an organization. It’s not always easy to hear about our faults, but it’s integral to continuously improve and grow our relevance at Iowa State. I’ve especially learned how different each of you are, as well as the importance of the diversity of our community and how it should be continuously celebrated and cherished.

Most importantly, I’ve learned how much value you bring to what we do as a news organization. We wouldn’t be able to exist without your support.

So, thank you.

I just have a simple ask. 

Please let me know how you feel the Iowa State Daily can improve. We are constantly looking for feedback and know that we cannot do better if we don’t know what we’re doing wrong. 

While we’ve created more opportunities for reader engagement with the Iowa State Daily, such as #AskMeAmes and our live-storytelling event Daily Dialogue, there’s still so much more we can do. 

Feel free to reach out at [email protected] or stop by the offices at 2420 Lincoln Way,Suite 205. Our door is always open for you. 

Happy Valentine’s Day from the Iowa State Daily!