Editor’s Statement – Gannon Thomas

Gannon Thomas shares plans for the 2026-27 Torch News section

The Ferris State Torch is a newspaper published by students for students, this should be reflected in the News section. The Torch isn’t just a paper; it’s an opportunity for students to learn about each other and the community they live in. 

The News section of the Ferris State Torch should be a resource for any reader to get a glimpse into important events and happenings both on campus and in the Big Rapids Community. The section should have stories that not only inform students about campus events but also make them want to get involved in campus life.

Gannon Thomas is excited to start his second semester with the Torch, going from reporter to News Editor. Photo courtesy of Gannon Thomas

For a little bit about me, I’m Gannon Thomas, a Sophomore Journalism and Telecommunications major from Manistee, MI. I’ve always had a love for reading and writing, as well as an obsession with keeping up with current events. I spend a lot of my downtime reading non-fiction or researching absurd topics. I hope to pursue a career in journalism and one day become an anchor. 

I’ve only been with the Torch for a single semester, so I am extremely grateful for a chance to step up and do more while also increasing the overall quality of each print. I hope to bring more community-driven headlines and focus on stories that impact Big Rapids, Ferris students, and the surrounding communities.  

In my short time, I have been so fortunate to work with such amazing and intelligent people who have made me realize how important even a smaller student-run publication like the Torch can be.  The entire 2025-26 staff deserves a shoutout for being so welcoming. I am endlessly grateful for giving me such an amazing experience.

I believe the News section should not only celebrate campus life, but also ask important questions and report on issues that affect students directly. I believe the Torch has a responsibility to hold the university accountable through fair and ethical reporting while continuing to serve as a reliable source of information for the Ferris community.   

I want the News section to make students at Ferris feel connected. Whether covering campus events, student organizations, local issues, or university decisions, I hope to create a section that keeps students informed while encouraging them to engage more with campus and the Big Rapids community. 

As your News Editor, I hope to make the Torch overall more engaging and entertaining while still providing informational and impactful articles.

Genuinely, thank YOU for reading the Torch!