The TORCH held its annual elections on April 3 and now has a new managing board. It is an annual custom that the new board be introduced in the first sidebar of each new volume. Though the names have changed, The TORCH will still provide the best coverage of the St. John’s community.
Garad J. Copstead, Editor in Chief: Copstead is not a new face to the pages of The TORCH. He wandered into our office two years ago looking to improve the writing in the newspaper. Copstead has done that and so much more. With his Marine background and vast experience, the 25-year-old became the news editor in 2000 and quickly changed the way The TORCH covered this campus. Toward the end of this current semester, Copstead became managing editor. He handled that transition well and now as the top guy, Copstead has already moved the newspaper to new heights.
Steve Hans, Managing Editor: It is extremely rare for a staff writer to jump into a management position without being a section editor first. Hans has proved that point invalid as he takes over the second highest spot on the managing board.
Hans, a sophomore journalism major, had his first taste of TORCH action as a sportswriter. He quickly excelled at that position and ventured into the news arena this year. Hans has gained respect from his peers because of his work ethic. He has quickly grasped the ways of The TORCH.
Tony Rivera, News Editor: Rivera, a sophomore journalism major, is another new addition to the managing board. He has made his name known on the pages of the news section throughout the year covering controversial topics. Though he is quiet in the office, Rivera always asks the tough questions. He is looking to continue the rich tradition in the news section.
Jennifer Callahan, Editorial Page Editor: Callahan has quickly become a TORCH veteran in a short period of time. As a staff writer her first year, she never shied away from a tough story. This past year Callahan pulled double duty, first as the assistant news editor, then as the news editor when Copstead moved up. She always went beyond the call of an assistant and was the backbone of the news section. She hopes to continue to bring flair to the editorial pages.
Jessica Lyons, Feature Editor: The TORCH’s new feature editor is a freshman with a lot of fresh ideas. Lyons is another staff writer who went well beyond the call of duty this past year. Her straight-to-the-point style was a pleasure to read and she is looking to reinvent the section like others before her have done.
Steven Javors, Sports Editor: Javors has returned to take on the duties of sports editor. The reason he remained at this position is simple: Javors eats, drinks and dreams St. John’s sports. He did a great job with the section this year and is looking to improve the section even more for the coming year. We look forward to what he has in store for the future.
Amanda Weekes, Photography Editor: Weekes has really been the photography editor since November, just not officially. Since The TORCH had a vacancy at the position, Weekes stepped up nicely. We are very grateful for all of her hard work. She was officially made an editor after we returned from San Francisco and was reelected unanimously.
