The Spectator The independent student newspaper of Valdosta State University
The people responsible…
Bailey Storey
Co Editor-in-Chief
Classification: Senior
Major: English/Sociology Minor
She/Her
Hi! My name is Bailey and this is my fourth year working with The Spectator. In my time on the staff, I have held six positions: Reporter, Photo Editor, Lead Photographer, Distribution Editor, Social Media Manager and Co Editor-in-Chief. When I’m not slinging coffee at my second job as a barista, I can usually be found in our office doing homework and menial tasks. After graduation, I hope to work as a feature journalist; however, my ultimate goal is to write a historical creative non-fiction anthology of short stories.
“None of us can vow to be perfect. In the end, all we can do is promise to love each other with everything we’ve got. Because love’s the best thing we do.” — Ted Mosby
Austin Bruce
Co Editor-in-Chief
Classification: Senior
Major: Mass Media
He/Him
Hey everyone! It’s your in-house career student Austin Bruce. After having served as the sports editor to The Spectator for the past year and a half, I have stepped up to the plate to help oversee The Spectator as Co-Editor in Chief. Don’t worry, though. I’ll still be on the sidelines bringing you the latest on Blazer athletics.
“Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.” — Michael Jordan
Rachel Larson
Copy Editor
Classification: Senior
Major: Journalism/Editing Path
She/Her
I’m Rachel! I’m from Tifton, GA, where I’ve lived most of my life except for 5 years when I lived in Orlando. I love reading (especially fantasy or horror novels), watching movies, and take naps with my cat Kazoo. I’m a fan of pop-punk music, the Atlanta Braves, and all types of bread. When I graduate, I want to be a copy editor for a book publisher.
“You must realize that something is happening to you, that life has not forgotten you, that it holds you in its hands and will not let you fall.” — Rainer Maria Rilke
Jenna Arnold
News Editor
Classification: Sophomore
Major: English
She/Her
Hi! I’m Jenna and I am the news editor for The Spectator. I am majoring in English and love to read and write! I also love to listen to music and watch movies! I’m so excited for this year with The Spectator!
“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” — Babe Ruth
Jasmine Hightower
Entertainment Editor
Classification: Junior
Major: Communication/Journalism Minor
She/Her
Hello everyone, my name is Jasmine and I will be serving as your Entertainment editor for the 2023 Fall semester. It is such a joy to be fulfilling this new role and I can’t wait for you all to enjoy the upcoming content. Here on campus , I’m usually introverted but I do enjoy going to events and conversing with new people, so don’t be afraid to say hi! After I graduate I would love to be a reporter for the Atlanta Journal- Constitution, and then hopefully make my way to working for the New York Times!
“Work hard in silence, let your success be the noise” — Frank Ocean
Jack Calhoun
Sports Editor
Classification: Senior
Major: Mass Media
He/Him
“You can climb any ol mountain once you make up your mind” — Hank Williams Jr.
Bailey Wilson
Campus Life Editor & News Letter Editor
Cherie Simmons
Web Editor
Classification: Junior
Major: Psychology
She/Her
Hey everybody! My name’s Cherie, and I am here as the Web Editor (so I’m the one typing this). Most of my time is spent watching some sort of media, either YouTube videos or random movies that I’ll later review on Letterboxd. Otherwise, you can find me sleeping, scrolling through Pinterest, or creating oddly specific Spotify playlists. Have a great semester!
“I will not accept a life I do not deserve.” — Maxine, X (2020)
Kennedy Hill
Photo Editor
Classification: Senior
Major: Communication/Promotions Minor
She/Her
Hello everyone! My name is Kennedy Hill, and I have the pleasure to serve as the Photo Editor for the Fall 2023 semester. Here on campus I am also apart of Habitat for Humanity, NCNW, NAACP, and have the honor to serve as Miss Kappa Alpha Psi for the Lambda Phi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Upon graduating, I plan on furthering my education by obtaining my master’s degree. As well as working in my field as either a News Anchor, or a Public Relations Specialist in the entertainment industry to eventually open up my own firm. I enjoy trying new things, watching movies, traveling, shopping, and anything in the arts that expresses self creativity.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” — Maya Angelou
Gavin Ponder
Graphics Editor
Classification: Junior
Major: Fine Arts
He/Him
Heyo! I love art and sometimes like to do accents for some reason. I have a smouldering problem.
“We’ve been trying to reach you about your car’s extended warranty” — Some scam caller
Mallory Jablonski
Graphics Editor
Classification: Sophomore
Major: Art and Design
She/Her
My name is Mallory Jablonski and I am currently a Sophomore here at VSU studying art and design, specializing in Graphic Design. This is my first year semester as a graphics editor at The Spectator and I cannot wait for what is to come!
“Normality is a paved road: It’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow.” —Vincent Van Gogh