A note to our readers
This issue marks the last one with our current Managing Editor, Courtnee Cesta, as she graduates at the end of this semester in order to enter a full-time job as a producer with News Channel 9 in Syracuse, New York. We, the staff of The Leader, would like to express our gratitude and well-wishes to Courtnee as she departs our Leader family.
Dear Courtnee,
My first memory of you was when the word “Back” was incorrectly placed in a headline for your article instead of “Bach”; unbeknownst to you, I believe that this was actually my fault at the time, as I had just started editing for The Leader, and I totally didn’t even realize. Sorry! Your writing skills, your editing skills, and your kindness will be sorely missed at The Leader. Thanks so much for everything, and good luck!
-Riley Straw
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I’m actually really envious of you, Court. You got a job straight out of college! Who does that?! Phenomenal people, that’s who. I only met you this semester but I know that you SO deserve this, and I’m honored to have worked with you. Don’t forget us little people when you reach the top!
Best wishes,
Ryli Chmiel
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Courtnee,
It took every semester except this one for us to work together and get to know each other, and for that, I am bummed to see you going just one semester early. It’s been so enjoyable working beside you; and helping me drive Maggie insane. While I say I am bummed to see you go, I am also excited to see what you accomplish ahead, as I have watched your work get better and better over these three and a half years. Keep climbing and stay in touch.
Best,
Alex Kaluzny
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Dearest Courtnee,
Although I get sad each time I think about the fact that you are leaving, I also keep thinking about how AWESOME you are, and that makes me happy again. I am so proud of you and so proud to know you — you’re going to do great things, and it’s an honor to have worked on The Leader with you. I have humongous gowabungous shoes to fill next semester, but I am making a promise to you that I won’t let you down! So, go out into the world and kick some journalistic butt, lady!
Love,
Jordyn
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Dear Courtnee,
It’s upsetting that I’ve had so little time to get to know you here, but I am so proud of you in making this decision — you are definitely a person who deserves an opportunity like this. Last year when you were Maggie’s assistant, I always admired your tenacity and constant willingness to take on multiple stories per week, and any writer-less story. You are so involved, and your passion for the things you care about shows. I know it’s hard to say goodbye early, but my advice to you is, embrace it! I’m sure you’ll fall in love with your new job and you’ll be one hardass reporter!
Best regards,
-Becca
Court,
Who is going to yell at Maggie with me at 3am when she’s attacking the layout with obnoxious strokes? Thanks for being a true and loyal journalism nerd with me and putting up with all the shenanigans our professors put us through (specifically Elmer.) It’s so hard to say goodbye to you this early, but I am extremely proud of you and your big girl job. You have given me so much as not only a managing editor and fellow coworker, but as a friend, and a great one at that. I am truly one of your biggest fans. I wish you all the luck in the world for your career as a kick ass producer; your name will be in lights one day, I promise you that. Say hi to the big guys for me and as always, stay fabulous.
Peace and love,
Mel
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Court,
Remember when you were hesitant to step into the Managing Editor position? I can’t believe that you thought twice about it — you have done such a wonderful job. You have done beautifully at not only your job, but have made my job so much less stressful and much more manageable. You have been a shoulder to lean on and not only a great co-worker, but a great friend. I have enjoyed laughing with you in the office and appreciated your commitment to making sure we stay on track. I will forever be thankful for the two hours you spent with me in the waiting room while I got rabies shots, and have loved our heart-to-hearts.
You have given us all hope that there is life after college, and I am so proud of you. I have to stop writing this before I start crying with you sitting in our office across from me. Good luck and stay in touch — we are all cheering for you.
Love,
Maggie