Farewell From the 2024-25 Editor-in-Chief

Finding the words to express how I truly feel has been more difficult than I expected. How do you begin to say goodbye to something that has meant so much, for so long?

What made it easier, though, was realizing that this wasn’t goodbye. It’s simply a transition. A step forward. A turning of the page into a version of myself that wouldn’t exist without everything The Talon gave me.

What started as an elective quickly became a second home. During my sophomore year, I entered Ferguson’s journalism program unsure of myself and who I would become. However I was met with a team and a teacher who welcomed me with open arms and believed in me from the very beginning.

To Mr. Lage, thank you. Thank you for seeing my potential when I couldn’t yet see it myself. I walked into your classroom as half the person I am now. But your constant encouragement, your honesty, and the way you never let me settle for “good enough” helped shape me into someone who believes in herself. You pushed me to be better, not just as a writer or editor, but as a person. The hardest part of all of this will be learning to stand on my own two feet without your guidance and of course, your sarcastic jokes that somehow always made the worst days a little better.

This class also gave me something I never expected, my best friend. Meeting Daniella Prieto was one of the greatest gifts journalism gave me. From our moments in creative writing during sophomore year, watching Rhett and Link videos and slowly learning more about each other, to long nights finding comfort in each other’s presence, she has been a constant source of strength, inspiration, and support. Watching her grow into the passionate and driven person she is today has been a privilege, and though I’m heartbroken to leave her, I know that her perseverance and heart will continue to guide this publication in all the best ways. 

I also want to recognize Sofia Morales, someone whose presence in this class was extremely uplifting. Sofy, your dedication as a writer never went unnoticed. You showed up, gave it your all, and poured so much heart into everything you touched. Your relentless work ethic and dedication helped make The Talon not just productive, but warm. You made this publication feel like a place of care and efficiency, and I’m so grateful for the impact you’ve left behind. I do not doubt that you’ll continue to bring that same light wherever you go.

Ryan Ramirez, though our interactions were limited and I was probably annoying you with how much I was on your case about a deadline, I want you to know how much I believe in your potential. You have such a clear voice and a way of looking at the world that’s uniquely yours. Even in the short time we worked together, it was easy to see how far you could go with your writing. The Talon was lucky to have you this year and will prosper with your work in the next year. 

Michael Silva, or India, though you weren’t officially part of The Talon, you were absolutely part of what made the class so special. Your kindness and easygoing nature brought so much joy to the room, and I’m truly grateful to have met you. Your weirdness always knew how to make people laugh and your presence made every class feel a little lighter. Thank you for being a bright spot through all of the noise. 

And finally, to The Talon’s 2025-2026 Editor-in-Chief, Amanda Perez, and Managing Editor, Emily Rojas, the end of my time is only the beginning of yours. I couldn’t imagine two better people to carry this forward. Watching you both step into these leadership roles has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my final year. From the way you carry yourselves to the care you put into your work, you’ve already proven that you are more than ready. You’ve shown not only talent and reliability but also a deep love for this team – qualities that matter more than anything else in this role. I’m cheering you on, always! 

Stepping away feels surreal, but I do so with a heart full of love and hope. This isn’t goodbye, but a start to the next chapter for both myself and The Talon. The Talon gave me a voice, but more importantly, it gave me a family. And that’s something I’ll never say goodbye to. I cannot wait to see where you all go from here. 

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”  – Henry David Thoreau 

With much love, 

Kat.