Allie Rial, Co-Editor-in-Chief
Hometown: Lake Villa, IL
Proudest work: Inside Augie’s secret spaces: From the bedrock to the bell
3 years at the Observer
As I sit here on another layout night, my brain cells powered by McDonald’s, praying for InDesign to finally stop punishing us and still (begrudgingly) not using an Oxford comma in my list of three because it’s not allowed, the finality of my last layout is really sinking in.
I wanted to be a part of the Observer from my first days on campus and since starting here, I have felt a sense of comradery that I think only nights spent in Old Main staring at a computer until 1 a.m. can give you. I have gained experience in interviewing, writing and leading in my various roles on the paper that I’m sure will be invaluable in my future endeavours. As a part of the staff, I have been able to explore spaces other students never will, talk with the President of the college for stories and indulge my curiosity to learn about many campus issues while writing a snappy headline or two. This job has been fun, it’s been challenging and ultimately it’s been a cornerstone of my Augie experience.
I have loved being a part of a staff of such talented people. Celebrating ICPA awards with them, laughing through sleep deprivation on layout nights and catching up at weekly staff meetings are some of my favorite memories from Augustana. A thank you is owed to the staff members who have graduated that taught me what I know, the advisors guiding me, and the best staff of student editors and reporters to lead this semester. A special thanks goes to Rae Barry and Linh Tran for being an amazing managing staff team. If I had to leave a piece of advice, news and writing doesn’t always go as you expect so go with the flow, things will work out okay. I look forward to following the Observer’s work next year and beyond and I know all of you will continue to do great things.
Billy Adams, Copy Editor
Hometown: DeKalb, IL
Proudest work: My layout night playlist
4 years at the Observer
As a feeble minded freshman, I made a bold choice to apply for something in which I had no experience. To my shock and delight, I was brought on board as the copy editor, a position I’ve had all four years that I’ve been here. Throughout my time on the editing team, the staff has come and gone, but the spirit remains unchanged. What I thought would be a remote, low commitment job soon became something to look forward to every week. Though I am just an English major with no aspiration for journalism, I never felt excluded from the conversation, my expertise was never questioned, and I quickly became the authority on comma usage amongst my peers. It was proven to me countless times that the Observer community supports each other to no end, especially during the late hours of print layouts. As graduation draws near, I don’t think I can forget my time on the editing team. I have honed many skills like speed reading, AP style usage, and grammar policing, and I hope to bring these skills into my future career in law. I will truly miss all of the people I’ve had the pleasure to work for throughout my four years like Charlie, Carly, Rae, Aubrey, Molly, Allie, and the list continues. I wish them all luck in their future endeavors, as I know they will continue to support me. We got thissssssssssssssssssssssssss.
Linh Tran, Managing Editor
Hometown: Ha Noi, Vietnam
Proudest work: 2024 Mr. Augustana photo essay
3 years at the Observer
Working at the Observer was the most unexpected career decision that ever happened to me, and I’m so grateful it did. I remember applying simply because I wanted to take photos, but somehow, I have climbed to Art Director and Managing Editor. Since then, I have met the grandson of Gandhi, caught a 6 AM bus to see the Mayor of Moline, won awards for having fun, and captured the most wonderful people. This job gave me more than just experience; it taught me what it means to care and be a part of something bigger than myself.
Shoutout to Molly Sweeney and Charlie Roiland for your camaraderie, Allie and Rae for your patience, Lexi Woodcock for your energy, Dr. Yaschur for your wisdom, and Riley Vu for picking up the torch and carrying it beautifully. To the current staff – thank you for trusting and supporting me. To the next generation – you got it! My only advice to you is to open your heart and take the experience as it is. It’s not going to be easy and glamorous all the time, but that’s what makes the good times even better. W Observer.
Gavin Nicoson, Features Editor
Hometown: Bloomington/Normal, IL
Proudest work: A new chapter begins for David Staples as APEP’s first graduate
3 years at the Observer
Joining the Observer was about as close to an accident as an intentional choice can come. It’s
also one of the few rash decisions I can sincerely call ‘good.’ Since I made the decision to apply
as a reporter, I’ve switched majors (twice, go SOAN!) and have found real satisfaction and
personal growth editing for the Features section. This is not only because of the life skills built
through interviewing, scheduling and collaboration, but because the people I’ve found here care
deeply about their work. I have been gifted countless opportunities to speak with folks at Augie
who I’d otherwise never have crossed paths with; those interactions have expanded my
knowledge of student life, community organization and so much that extends beyond the
boundaries of campus. I’ve seen great ideas turn into somehow better stories, and I’ve also
seen last-minute pitches evolve into pieces with deep integrity and heart behind them. Those
values stem from every single contributor, including those who made time in their busy
schedules to sit and talk with us at the Observer. All I could ever say is thank you, a million
times.
Megan Yarusso, News Reporter
Hometown: Saint Charles, IL
Proudest work: Stone Lectureship speaks Selma Jewish history to campus community
1 semester at the Observer
The Observer was a great way for me to apply the communication skills I’ve picked up during my time at Augie, and it was a lot of fun to round out my senior year with a journalism stint! What’s more, I got to see sides of campus I had never had contact with before, and meet many new people along the way. Special thanks to my wonderful editor Lexi, who always kept me on track and pushed me to follow a story wherever it led.
