Many changes are happening to the Torch’s special editions section, and this column will guide readers through what exactly will be changing, how the issues will look different and what is to come from the Torch staff.
This year, instead of devoting four extra pages to our special editions, we will be trying something new and shifting towards a more sustainable way of producing these issues. Rather than printing 16 pages, we will instead be moving some of our sections so that we are only printing the same 12 pages as normal and can still produce the stories for those special issues, which we all take pride in.
Although these changes are new to the Torch, we are currently planning to run special editions mostly throughout the months besides our Oct. special editions. For our final print in October, the Torch will be highlighting both the classic Grand Valley vs. Ferris State rivalry and our satirical Halloween tire fire edition.
The Torch realizes more than ever how important it is to speak up on Black History Month, Women’s History Month and LGBTQ+ History Month. This is why we will be focusing on celebrating all month long with special stories, features, graphics and important information. Together, we can stay informed and help support our bulldog family.
This ensures the Torch is taking a step to become a more sustainable business and it also takes pressure off the staff, as we are currently lacking the funds to hire additional employees. The Torch has also taken the time to consider the importance of being flexible and adaptable, especially while in the workplace.
Although these changes to the Torch’s financial situation drastically change what the future of the paper will look like, we as a staff are and have been working as hard as we can to put forth the best product possible and we hope the community can recognize that.
One thing we have always loved about our special editions is the opportunity to open our pages to new voices. As we move forward with this reimagined format, we want to extend a heartfelt invitation to anyone in the Ferris community who is interested in contributing to our special editions. Whether you’re a student, faculty, alumni or staff, if you have a story to share or a perspective to amplify, especially during Black History Month, Women’s History Month and LGBTQ+ History Month, we want to hear from you.
These issues are for everyone and we are committed to making sure they reflect the rich diversity of our campus. By including more voices, we are not only strengthening our publication, we are also uplifting the community and the voices we aim to represent.
That is how the Torch will continue to support, inform and celebrate every part of our Bulldog community, one story at a time.