Editor's Letter

THIS ISSUE MARKS the end of my journey as editor of Illume and the beginning of my retirement. When I accepted the role a little more than 12 years ago, I knew little about publishing a magazine, but in time it has grown to an award-winning publication I'm proud to have helped shape. My objective has always been to illustrate the impact USI has on alumni, students, staff and faculty, and the community, who in turn took that impact and made the world a better place for others. I am grateful to the team I collaborated with to make Illume the best we could, including writers, designers, photographers and proofreaders, and to readers for participating in Illume's surveys, submitting photos and updates to make the magazine better. As a USI storyteller, I am deeply indebted to the many people who shared intimate and personal details of their lives so I could write their story. The magazine is and always has been for the reader. Thank you for staying connected to USI through Illume and for your role in making it a wonderful magazine.

Best,

C. L. Stambush

Editor/Senior Writer