In the days leading up to choosing a theme for this year’s magazine, I wanted to focus on positive outcomes from 2021 in the Wright State community. Higher education, in general, has had a rough few years, but that does not mean the celebration of triumphs should cease.

The ribbon-cutting of the historical NPHC plots is just one example. The plots inspired the cover story and theme of this year’s compilation of stories: Advocate.

But you cannot advocate without leading and inspiring. We chose present-tense action verbs to emphasize the importance of confident action.

Wright State does a lot of talking, but I wanted to use this year’s magazine as an opportunity to celebrate the action behind these words. I also wanted to advocate for some issues in need of attention.

I genuinely believe that everything rises and falls with leadership, and university leadership comes from all areas—from President Sue Edwards to an ordinary student leader.

After several conversations and reflecting on my own experiences as a student leader, I came to realize that student leaders were feeling overworked and underappreciated and experiencing burnout in record numbers.

You can read more about these conversations along with stories about the Gem City Market, international students’ journey to fit in and more in the pages to come.

As leaders, we all have the opportunity and responsibility to make an impact. To speak up.

To advocate.
To inspire.

That is what I hope you will take away from this year’s magazine.

Leadership is hard. Some student leaders question whether it is worth the time, effort and sacrifice. And as the university goes through faculty cuts and reorganization, many others may do the same.

However, as leaders, we cannot be complacent. Leadership is not a finished product; it’s an ever-changing process—a journey.

A very-rewarding, fruitful journey.

As I address you as editor-in-chief for the final time, I thank the community and the staff at Flight Magazine and The Wright State Guardian Media Group. We would not be where we are today without all of your support. With a bittersweet goodbye, I invite you to ponder how you yourself can inspire, lead or advocate in your community.

Leadership is not a title, it’s a way of life, and we all have the potential to make a difference.

—Makenzie Hoeferlin
Editor-in-chief