Dear Augusta: Thank you.

(photo courtesy of The Lenon Family)

By Rakiyah Lenon | Editor in chief

Dear Augusta,

As I prepare to walk across the stage on graduation day in just a short time, I can’t help but reflect on the amazing experience I have had as a student at Augusta University.

As a communication major, I discovered how reporting allows us to capture our history. Communication is the glue that holds us all together and news is a part of that communication.

For seven decades, AU’s student newspaper, The Bell Ringer, has served as a voice and historical record of our student body and local community. And for four years, I too have been able to contribute to its history and share this story.

From “chiming in” as a columnist, to wearing many hats as editor, it has been a privilege and honor to be part of this newspaper.

The Bell Ringer has helped shape the person I am today. It has allowed me to grow and see my community in such a beautiful light.

This is a moment in my life I will not take for granted. It has taught me more than I ever could have imagined.

Because of The Bell Ringer, I have had the pleasure of meeting countless amazing people through the many interviews and stories. I have also loved hearing alumni share their stories of what they remember of the paper, knowing that it is still a present figure after all this time.

I encourage my fellow students and AU community to value the presence of news, especially student journalism. With it, we learn. With it, we grow.

My hope is that we continue to tell our story for future generations and continue to unleash all the wonderful stories surrounding us.

To Augusta, Augusta University, the Department of Communication, professors, students, friends, family – with the deepest sincerity and gratitude, I truly thank you for the opportunity.

Sincerely,

Rakiyah Lenon

This story is published in the Wednesday, April 24, 2024 print edition of The Bell Ringer on page 2.