As we usher in the 91st year of The Oswegonian I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Elena Gaffney and I will be serving as the editor-in-chief for the 2026-2027 academic year. 

 I was drawn to the paper by my love for order and appreciation of student-led media,  and have worked behind the scenes as a copy editor for the past two years. As an English major, I come from outside of the typical journalism track, yet have found my place at The Oswegonian. I have seen firsthand the hard work that goes into producing a quality publication every week. It is the effort of a community, not just an individual. 

The Oswegonian is an incredible resource for our campus community. It provides the opportunity for students to hone their skills as reporters, writers, photographers, graphic designers and editors, while also growing as professionals, leaders and members of a society beyond SUNY Oswego. Working for The Oswegonian helps students build skills they can use on a resume and on a daily basis. It builds connections across departments, between sports and with local businesses. 

The paper is a safe space for new writers to put themselves out there and see their name in print for the first time. It is a time capsule and a place to celebrate the achievements of our community. 

Local journalism builds engagement by providing a window into the lives of its constituents. What are students concerned about? How are they involved in the off-campus community? Where are they pouring their effort? What are they creating? How are students interacting with faculty members? And what do they have to say? 

Let this be my charge to you as the reader: get involved. Participate in campus events, make connections with the broader Oswego community and put yourself out there. To my fellow students: explore beyond your major. Use all of the resources at your disposal to learn and grow your skills in whatever interests you. Creativity is a precious thing and should be upheld. 

I look forward to what this semester will bring and am grateful to all who support campus media.