When I was promoted to editor of The News-Banner two years ago, a dream I chased since I was a 17-year-old high school junior, I never expected to leave the newspaper. Least of all did I expect to leave the industry. But sometimes unexpected opportunities come up and you just have to take a leap of faith.
Now that it’s school board official, I can share some exciting albeit bittersweet professional news.
On July 1, I go to work as Bluffton-Harrison Metropolitan School District’s communications specialist. In this newly created full-time position I will help connect the community with information from the school district.
I am thrilled by this opportunity to use my skillset in a new way and to work with the teachers and administrators I’ve admired from afar for years. My son will be a third generation Tiger very soon and I’m proud to be a part of it.
I’m also excited by the chance to be home more with him.
The decision to leave my post at the paper is one I didn’t make lightly. I’m going to miss my N-B family so much, and it’s weird to think that soon I won’t be walking into the same building every day. Their support has undoubtedly helped carry me through the past five months. I could not have asked for more supportive people around me during that time. But I know me stepping away from the daily journalism grind is what my son and I both need at this time.
Small-town journalism is a challenge for any reporter; I’ve found it nearly impossible as a single mom of a toddler — despite the best efforts of all involved.
I will work hard these next two months to wrap up my nine-year N-B career on the strongest note possible. There are still stories to share and projects to wrap up, such as our annual Who We Are magazine that will be published in June.
My N-B career has been an incredible one and I’ll look back with such fondness and pride. I’ve learned and grown so much, and I have nothing but great things to say about how the company has helped me over the years. I’ve done everything I’ve wanted to do at a newspaper and then some. Please continue to read and subscribe to support the Banner’s important work in our community. I know I will.
Thank you, Wells County, for trusting me with your stories. It’s been the greatest honor.
jessica@news-banner.com
