While at The Daily Texan, my illustrations spoke for me. I worked with journalists across our writing departments to express their stories visually. For my final piece published in our paper, I’ll be speaking through my words.
The Comics Department is a space full of love. From the messages we send admiring each other’s work to the drawings plastered on our walls from prior comics staffers I didn’t get to meet, that love is always present.
To all the future comics staffers, I hope that you feel at home at the Texan and understand the power of your work as artists. Your art has just as much weight as the work of our dedicated student journalists.
Emma, thank you for opening the doors of the Texan to me. As my first editor, you gave me the room to tread through trial and error. Your excitement for publishing our work continuously guided me as comics editor.
Breyona, I appreciate you more than you know. Your ability to create a welcoming environment and personable relationships as a leader is something I’ll forever admire. Production nights become something to look forward to with you, and our friendship is one of the greatest things I’ll leave the Texan with.
Ana Deisy, you have brought so much joy into my life. Although readers don’t know it, I’ve made you pose countless times to get the right angle or perspective of figures in my illustrations. I’ve cherished every moment together. Your future is headed for greatness, and I’m excited to be along for the ride.
Amara, we joined the Texan at the same time, and seeing the way you have grown is beyond rewarding as both your editor and friend. All the comics we made referencing our friendship are something I’ll hold near and dear to me. You are an artistic force, and I look forward to supporting you in all your future endeavors.
Kuba, you are an integral part of our department. The joy you bring through your infamous pigeon character, Paul, is something I will never forget.
Gaby, you joined our department less than a year ago, but I have quickly begun to trust you with its future. There’s no doubt in my mind that you’ll continue advocating for our department.
My comics staffers, I’m incredibly proud to have worked alongside you and of the work you’ve produced. You bring passion and enthusiasm to comics in a new way. Knowing this, I can walk away leaving our department in good hands.
Katie and Amelia, thank you for making me feel like I had a meaningful voice within the newsroom. I’m immensely grateful to have built a community for the Comics Department under your management.
Peter, thank you for putting up with our shenanigans (we are your favorite department after all). Your support in and outside the Basement means the world to us.
To my grandma, I’m thankful for the Sundays we spent reading the comics section of newspapers together. Your support of my work at the Texan has driven me to push myself, as I know you’ll be reading our online publication every Tuesday and Friday. I love you.
To the rest of my family and friends, although my schedule has been jam-packed, making time for you all has kept me sane. Thank you for cheering for me despite the distance. I love you all.
My final thanks goes to the journalists and staff I have crossed paths with at the Texan. Creating illustrations to accompany your reporting has been a pleasure. I hope that I have helped make your stories come to life.
