Editor’s letter

This edition of FLUX will always hold a special place in my life. A major reason for that is the team that surrounded me.

Ainsley Maddalena was this magazine’s backbone. She kept us all grounded. Not one story in this edition went untouched by her vision. She has a talent for editing and I leaned on her so hard to ensure each story met the FLUX standards. Ainsley’s spirit and vision guided this group. She always helped pull my ideas from theoretical to practical. This magazine wouldn’t be what it became without her. I was fortunate to catch a ride on the wave of excitement that she created.

Carlie Weigel, one of the most talented writers and reporters I’ve ever been around, used those talents not just on an incredible story of her own but also in shaping the framework of our other stories, like “Anchored in Community.” She always looked for more to take on to challenge herself but also to push FLUX to a higher level.

Anna Ward’s enthusiasm was contagious. In times when the rest of us might have less energy, Anna would light our meetings up and keep us motivated. The focus and determination she brought to each of the stories was unmatched. Her dedication helped bring to life the vision of “Critical Conditions.” Her writing skills are phenomenal.

Sammy Pierotti brings us all unparalleled optimism. Any challenge we faced, Sammy was always there with a smile and a willingness to face it. Sammy channeled their auspicious energy towards each of the goals we envisioned for FLUX. “Home on the Road” benefited by having Sammy’s spirit help awaken it. Hearing “Yeah, dude!” in our meetings became a sort of rallying cry for me.

Evan Susswood remained level-headed no matter what came our way. His eye for what pictures spoke to the truth of the stories was key in helping this edition of FLUX sing. Through reshoots, story changes, and all the other unpredictability that comes with a magazine, Evan kept his eye true.

The half-year we spent helping shape this edition of the renowned FLUX Magazine are memories I’ll hold tight for decades to come. The stories and the photos are all aspects that I’m immensely proud of, however, what I’ll cherish most though is the comradery forged while working to bring out the best of each story.

FLUX embodies what it means to be in the School of Journalism and Communication. Community, friendship, creativity, collaboration, and belonging.

As I reflect now, those are the attributes that I feared would escape me as a student here. As a non-traditional student with no journalism background prior to college, fear almost held me back from challenging myself. Fear of being different, of being an outsider, of lacking the skills needed to be equal with my peers. Instead, I used those fears to push myself forward toward my goals.

Each of the stories featured this year also highlights those attributes. They are the pillars that hold this edition together.

I speak for each of the incredible students who put their effort and talents into FLUX when I say, we hope you enjoy this edition. Our goal, from day one, was to deliver a magazine that resonated with its readers. I believe we’ve achieved that and so much more.

Lastly, I want to give a special thanks to three amazing people, without whom I wouldn’t be where I am today.

My loving wife, Stephanie. Her endless support is incalculable. I wouldn’t be me without you. You are, without a doubt, my better half.

My daughter, Artemis. She’s my inspiration to continue pushing myself. She fills my heart with infinite love. Being her dad is the most precious role I hold in life and one I never take for granted.

My big brother, Tim. Writing was a talent he held. Each time I put words on a page, I feel your love surround me. You’re with me in all I do and I miss you dearly. Without your guidance growing up, I wouldn’t be the man I am today.

I could fill this entire magazine with people who helped me get to where I am today. Instead, let me just say thank you.

I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity and to have been a part of something so special.

Editor-in-Chief - Johnny Media