By Kat Tabor
It is an honor to be part of such a pivotal moment in history by serving as editor-in-chief of The Torch. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity, passed down to me by those who saw something in me before I even saw it in myself. I intend to cherish it — just as I’ve cherished every moment on this team.
If you’re a Lane Community College student with even the slightest interest in writing, storytelling or truth-seeking, I invite you to give journalism a shot. We are always looking for more reporters and writers. Whether you’ve dreamed of being a journalist or just want to try something new, there is space for your voice at The Torch.
I joined the paper in October 2024 by complete accident. I walked into the wrong door and ended up talking with then-editor Chandlor Henderson and faculty advisor Camilla Mortensen. Within minutes, I was writing. That wrong door changed the course of my life — permanently. Journalism became my passion, my purpose and my career.
Because of The Torch, I’ve had opportunities I never imagined. I’m proud to be the first Lane Community College student to be awarded the Snowden Journalism of Excellence Internship — a highly competitive, paid program that places student journalists in professional newsrooms across Oregon. This summer, I’ll be working with the Columbia Gorge News in Hood River for a 10-week placement. This milestone would not have been possible without The Torch. I truly would not be where I am today without it.
This year, we’re also honoring The Torch’s legacy by bringing back one of our classic logos — just in time for the return of our print editions. Print is more than paper; it’s a powerful way to bring the voices of our students and campus together in one place. By reviving this tradition, we’re not only celebrating our past, but building a stronger future for student journalism at Lane.
In addition to my work with The Torch, I’m also proud to help uphold The Denali, our literary arts magazine. We’re currently accepting submissions of student poetry, artwork and creative writing for both the magazine and a new column in the paper. To submit, email denali@lanecc.edu — we’d love to feature your work.
So if you’re standing in front of a door and wondering whether to open it — do it. You never know where it might lead.
If you’d like to join us at The Torch or write a letter to the editor, please reach out to editor@lcctorch.com. I would love to hear from you.
Gratefully,
