A farewell from 08-10 editor

A self-described "loyal Spectator reader" once asked me if I hated Seattle University.

While I've covered sensitive issues and our editorial board has written staff editorials critical of the university, the reader couldn't have been more wrong.

I'm grateful to Seattle University and this community. As graduation approaches, I've even come to feel a twinge of jealousy toward those just starting their educational journey here.

This university is continually getting better while working through growing pains successfully. Seattle U is on the cusp of great things, and its neighborhood is embracing students and the university.

In a short time, current students will enjoy a new state-of-the-art library and commons. Down the road, new housing facilities, Core revision and, yes, Division I athletics are all things to be excited about. Future students will get to enjoy a light rail stop on Capitol Hill and a Broadway streetcar. Top it all off with the Elliott Bay Book Co. and a slew of new retailers in the neighborhood, and the future looks bright for Seattle University.

In recent weeks, especially in light of coverage of Marquette University's rescinded job offer to Seattle U professor Jodi O'Brien, I've realized one thing I value about Seattle University is its articulation of its mission. That is, most students, faculty and staff can tell you what it is, and what's more, they use it to inform their actions inside and outside the classroom. And so do administrators.

I value the mission's dedication to educating the whole person the most. I recently told a group of student leaders and President Stephen Sundborg, S.J. that my education at Seattle U has been 80 percent out of the classroom. College is not just about academic learning; it's a package deal.

For example, a majority of my education here at Seattle University has come in my three years of work for The Spectator.

I appreciate that at a Jesuit Catholic university The Spectator's staff has been given the opportunity to make mistakes, learn in a student-led environment and challenge campus decision-making.

Joshua may be reached at editor@su-spectator.com