March 28, 2024

Column: Letter of resignation

More than four years ago, I read an ad in the newspaper for a job opening at the Newton Daily News, and I thought it would be a great opportunity to earn experience and make a positive impact in a place that had made such an impact on me. I had no idea just how much I would gain that day.

I have matured since those days as a newbie out of college, learning the tools of the trade and valuable lessons in journalism, but I’ve also been fortunate to evolve as a citizen of a supportive community, learning the importance of volunteering from those most selfless.

A new opportunity has presented itself recently, and I have accepted another position at the Omaha World-Herald. My last day at the Newton Daily News will be Dec. 2.

Newton has prepared me for the next adventure more than I could have ever imagined. Not only have I gained valuable work experience but also a tremendous amount of adored relationships, too.

Thank you to each of you I’ve met from writing. Many of you have let me into your home, shared your stories or given me encouragement, and not a day goes by where I’m not grateful for the privileges this job has allowed.

Thank you to my family, my mom, who has instilled in me the value of personal development, career and provided never failing optimism.

Thank you to my work family because I’m certainly not leaving for lack of love for the Newton Daily News. This newsroom team deserve great kudos.

Thank you to Abigail for her heartfelt leadership and professional integrity, Dan for his steady guidance, Pam for her endless encouragement, Jamee for her compassionate friendship, Jason for his engaging conversations and Mike for his professional excellence. Each of these individuals are hard working and generous team players, and I’m so thankful to have worked beside them. The Newton Daily News, including many unmentioned people, has made me a better person, better professional and better journalist.

Thank you to my extended work family, community family and the volunteers who hold this town together. Your work does not go unrecognized and you inspire many of us who know you and those who don’t. There is no space to thank each for your influence, but I will thank a few organizations for which so many of the people I admire serve: The Salvation Army, Centre for Arts and Artists, OPEN, Newton Park Board, Young Professionals of Jasper County, United Way of Jasper County, Newton Development Corporation, Main Street, Dollars for Scholars and political volunteers.

Thank you to Paul and Dawn Bleeker and Jerry Morris for being, again, wonderful teachers with an open door. Thank you to my St. Stephen’s family for being, now and forever, a large part of my foundation and support system.

It’s been a pleasure to work at the newspaper and an honor to have a platform of communicate with you all.

Each of you have made me a more confident and understanding person, and my affection for my hometown has only grown. I leave here with nothing but positive things to say about the City of Newton and its future.

Thank you for reminding me that it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a village to raise a town, and that good things are happening everywhere — you just have to look around.