Senior Farewell: Editor-in-Chief Natalie Hamren

My entire college experience has been with The Northerner—from my very first day of classes my freshman year to now.

It’s hard to imagine what my life will be like after The Northerner since it’s been so integral to my life these past four years. 

My first memory of The Northerner was having my first story I ever wrote for the organization land on the front page of the paper. I was floored and filled with glee. The article wasn’t special and the writing makes me cringe looking back at it, but the editors at the time saw potential in me. 

The Editor-in-Chief at the time, Mackenzie Manley, messaged me to tell me that she thought I was a great writer and could go far in the organization. I remember feeling so honored that the Editor-in-Chief thought I could go far. Little freshman Natalie had no idea that this newspaper would become my home for the rest of college.

From there, I worked my way up the ranks—becoming assistant news editor, news editor and Editor-in-Chief, a position I’ve proudly held for the last two years. 

I’ve met some of the nicest, kindest, compassionate, loving, and caring people at The Northerner. These people have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am so thankful. 

I’ve made the most amazing memories at The Northerner—from spending most of my nights in the newsroom with my best friends to covering important issues on campus. I treasure them all. 

To me, The Northerner is more than just an organization—it truly is a family. My co-workers over these four years are some of my favorite people in the world and I cannot imagine my life without them. 

Mack, you were the first person at The Northerner to believe in me. You made me feel special and valued. Even after you graduated, you cheered me on and rooted for me. You listened to me rant on the phone about my problems with such compassion. You always made time to meet me for lunch and update me on your life. You’ve always been my role model, and I’m so glad to know you. 

Sam, you are one of the funniest people I know. You guided me through The Northerner when I was new and never made me feel dumb for asking a million questions. As Editor-in-Chief, you supported your team and always made sure everyone was okay. You’ve done more for me than you will ever know. 

Josh Goad, you are a wonderful human being. Truly the best. If the world had more Josh Goads, it would be a far better place. Thank you for always keeping it real with me and having my back. And thank you for owning such a beautiful dog. I love Gus—The Northerner’s unofficial mascot. 

Sierra, you are the best person ever! Forever the super sports editor in my heart. I’m so glad I met you through The Northerner. You are so insanely talented and I am so proud of you! You are one of the most hardworking and compassionate people I’ve ever met. Forever thankful for you.

Rachel and Madison, I’m so proud of everything you’ve done at The Northerner. You both started out as rockstar reporters and ended up being even better rockstar news editors. You both are so talented and I know you will do amazing things. 

Matthew, you’re going to be an amazing Editor-in-Chief. I have full confidence in you and I cannot wait to watch you lead. 

Kane, it feels like you’ve been in my life forever. The moment we met, I knew I had found a lifelong friend. I’m constantly in awe of your talent—even though you never see it yourself. You make me laugh till my stomach aches. You make me smile with your witty jokes. I’m so glad The Northerner brought us together. 

Josh Kelly, there are no words to describe you—at least nothing that could ever suffice. You are the best person I have ever met. You are so kind and loving; you make everyone feel at home. Your happiness and laughter are contagious; your heart is fierce. From spending almost every single day with you to not seeing you in person for over a year, my heart is broken. However, I still feel the same love and compassion from you over text, Zoom and phone calls. The Northerner gave me my greatest friend. I am so thankful for you, my sweet friend. 

Billy, I think you know what I’m going to say. I am so grateful for you. You’ve made the biggest impact on my life. 

Michele, my news mother. You watched me these last four years grow into the journalist I am today. You never doubted me and always pushed me to my greatest potential. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. 

To the rest of the current and future Northerner staff, be brave. Tell the stories that need to be told. You all will carry this organization to new heights and I will cheer you on from afar. 

I am so glad I spent my college experience chasing leads, writing stories and breaking the news. I would not have changed a thing. Thank you to everyone who has worked for or will work for The Northerner—you are amazing.