Not out of the Woods Yet DT Volume 121, Issue 39 Friday, December 4, 2020

not out of the woods yet DT Volume 121, Issue 39 friday, december 4, 2020

rocky higine / the daily texan staff CONTACT US

MAIN TELEPHONE (512) 471-4591 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Caldwell (512) 232-2212 DT [email protected] MANAGING EDITOR PERMANENT STAFF Megan Menchaca Type 9 (512) 232-2217 Editor-in-Chief Projects Reporters Emily Caldwell Marcus Krum, Nicole [email protected] Stuessy, Meara Isenberg Managing Editor Megan Menchaca Copy Desk Chiefs NEWS OFFICE Jimena Pinzon, Lawson Assoc. Managing Editors Freeman introvert (512) 232-2207 Jason Lihuang, Trinady Joslin Assoc. Copy Desk Chiefs Director of Digital [email protected] Phoebe Hayes, Irissa Strategy Omandam, Megan Shankle Michael Hernandez The Texan strives to present all Double Coverage Copy Editor Director of Diversity & Brittany Miller finds home information fairly, accurately and Inclusion Angelica Arinze Design Editor completely. If we have made an Sierra Wiggers Collaborations Director error, let us know about it. E-mail Neelam Bohra Assoc. Design Editor [email protected]. Maria Perez Internal Relations Directors in Areeba Amer, Ariana Double Coverage Designer Arredondo Christina Peebles BUSINESS & ADVERTISING Assoc. Editors Senior Designers Abby Dasgupta, Hannah Megan Fletcher, Eunice Bao (512) 471-8590 Lopez, Julia Zaksek, Sanika Video Editor [email protected] Nayak Jackson Barton basement Forum Editors Assoc. Video Editor Director Daisy Kielty, Maria Sailale Jennifer Xia, Brendan Long Gerald Johnson Illustration Coordinator Photo Editor Abriella Corker Presley Glotfelty Business/ Operations Manager News Editor Assoc. Photo Editor rat colony Emily Hernandez Jamie Hwang Frank Serpas III Assoc. News Editors Double Coverage Photo Editor Advertising Manager Neelam Bohra, Lauren Girgis Jack Myer What will your next degree be? Emily Cohen News Desk Editors Senior Photographers Assistant Advertising Manager Areeba Amer, Hannah Kirsten Hahn, Nicholas Vo Williford, Lauren Grobe Comics Editor Grant Daniels Beat Reporters Barbra Daly Production Andrew Zhang, Anna Assoc. Comics Editor Michael Gammon Canizales, Amanda Figueroa- Rocky Higine Where do you want to earn it? Nieves, Brooke Ontiveros, Account Executives Samantha Greyson, Neha Senior Comics Artists Diane Byram, Pam Garner, Julianne Madhira, Lauren Goodman Dan Martinez, Destiny Alexander, Cynthia Trevino Phillipp Life&Arts Editor Ariana Arredondo Social Media Editor Design Hal Riley Tillie Policastro Assoc. Life&Arts Editors copyright jason lihuang, and reproduced with permission Aisling Ayers, Grace Barnes Assoc. Social Media Editor What job title do you want? Katya Bandouil Sr. Life&Arts Writers Jennifer Errico, Anissa Reyes Senior Social Media Staffers Benjamin Cohen, Nuzha Sports Editor at the paper, and you’ve Stevens fan because of your Trinady, you’re so tal- Zuberi By Jason Lihuang Myah Taylor THE DAILY TEXAN MAIL Audio Editor @parrotsnpotates supported me each step (admittedly worrying) ob- ented and on top of your Assoc. Sports Editor Harper Carlton SUBSCRIPTION RATES Stephen Wagner of the way. Thank you session with his music. game. I know you’ll kill it Senior Audio Producers Exploring your next steps beyond Senior Sports Reporters Aurora Berry, Addie Costello, One Semester (Fall/Spring) Nathan Han, Carter Yates Chloe Young I knew that I wanted to for everything. Connor, Adriana and at the Texan and beyond. $60.00 Newsletters Editor Editorial Adviser join The Daily Texan from Brittany, we go all the Alicja, that semester will Michael, you’re the kind- Two Semesters (Fall & Spring) graduation can be overwhelming. If Maia Borchardt Peter Chen $120.00 Projects Editor the moment I got to UT. way back to day one. Thank always mean a lot to me. est person I know and a Sami Sparber Summer Session Although I chose to be a you for being my partner- Monday Copy Forever. true digital king. Angelica, $40.00 you’re trying to narrow down your computer science major, in-crime and someone I And thank you to all copy thank you for taking on One Year (Fall, Spring and Summer) I couldn’t quite cut off my could send giant brick texts issue staffers, past, present such an important and dif- $150.00 Graduate School options, we can help. ties to journalism. It was to when I spiral after a bad and future. The department ficult cause at this paper. To charge by VISA or MasterCard, call a part of me, like a limb. day. You’ve kept me and would be nothing without Last but definitely not 471-5083. Send orders and address changes to Texas Student Media, Or a parasite. Probably the paper afloat. you guys. If you happen to least, thank you to the one P.O. Box D, Austin, TX 78713-8904. Jimena, the hot, smart be a potential staffer think- and only Megan Menchaca, Learn more about graduate degree ISSUE STAFF the latter. Designers So I found the DT inter- and funny Queen of En- ing about joining the Tex- who is truly the Greatest Of Jenny Devico, Kyle Ahern est form and checked some gland. It’s never not a good an, consider copy. I might All Time. It’s also nice to ADVERTISING DEADLINES programs at schools around the country, boxes. A few of you may time with you. I’ll miss you be biased, but I think it’s have someone reassure me Ad space is reserved by noon at least two business days before regular publications. For and connect with their recruiters by know that I tried out for the loads, luv. Lawson, thank the best department. that I’m not a f--k-up at my special editions and other advertising opinion department first — you for introducing me to Big shoutout to copy’s job — even if I am. Thank opportunities please speak with a TSM account executive for deadlines and additional requesting more information through an and got handily rejected. gummye peet rat. You’re sister, design. Thank you you for believing in me. I details. The Fall 2020 publication schedule is Tuesday and Friday. If you’re reading this and amazing, and I’m grateful to Jeff, Nila, Christiana and may have spouted hyper- online interest form. think, “Geez, this guy’s not to have been able to work Christina for dealing with bole about how much I hat- Contact [email protected]. with you so much. my shenanigans. Special ed being an AME once or a very good writer,” you’re COPYRIGHT probably right. Irissa, I’ll miss our cha- thanks to Maria. I still feel twice, but I wouldn’t trade AUSTIN WEATHER Copyright 2020 Texas Student Media. All otic page edits. I hope our bad about that time I made these past few months articles, photographs and graphics, both in Luckily, I made it in as a the print and online editions, are the copy editor. As they say, the friendship “lives on.” Phoe- you reupload the flipbook for anything. property of Texas Student Media and may TODAY TOMORROW be, I’ve seen you grow leaps at 1 a.m. And to everyone else at not be reproduced or republished in part or Dec. 4 Dec. 5 rest of history. in whole without written permission. www.graduatesoftexas.com All right, let’s get straight and bounds as an editor, Myah and Stephen, DT who’s made this place to the thank-you’s. and I’m glad my Thursday I’ll watch a UT football feel like home — thank The Daily Texan, a student newspaper at The University of Texas at Austin, is published by Kirsten, you are the best, stress didn’t deter you from game one day. Maybe. you. You guys have made Texas Student Media, 2500 Whitis Ave., Austin, staying. Megan Shankle, No promises. these semesters more than TX 78712. Our work is made possible by support HI 63º HI 61º most caring mentor and from our advertising partners and donors. To LO 36º LO 39º friend anyone could ask you’re honestly the most Fellow management worth it. provide individual support, please visit The Daily Texan page at supportstudentvoices.org. To for. I’ve learned so much powerful editor out of all of people, it’s been great be- For the last time, let’s go highlight your business, please email fin. us. Also, I’m now a Sufjan ing on the team with y’all. make a paper! [email protected]. The Daily from watching you lead Texan does not publish during academic breaks, most Federal Holidays and exam periods. News contributions will be accepted by telephone (471-4591), or at the editorial office (HSM 2.120). Entire contents copyright 2020 Texas Student Media. CONTACT US FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 MAIN TELEPHONE 3 (512) 471-4591 30s EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Caldwell (512) 232-2212 [email protected] This is too many characters. MANAGING EDITOR Megan Menchaca (512) 232-2217 Can I do my 30 in a tweet? [email protected] NEWS OFFICE (512) 232-2207 [email protected]

BUSINESS & ADVERTISING (512) 471-8590 [email protected] Director Gerald Johnson Business/ Operations Manager Frank Serpas III Advertising Manager What will your next degree be? Emily Cohen Assistant Advertising Manager Grant Daniels Production Michael Gammon Where do you want to earn it? Account Executives Diane Byram, Pam Garner, Julianne Phillipp Design Tillie Policastro What job title do you want? copyright michael hernandez, and reproduced with permission By Michael Hernandez dedicated to ensuring that it from playing ping-pong in THE DAILY TEXAN MAIL @mixaelii would be a good one. Megan the basement. SUBSCRIPTION RATES carefully selected a stacked The best part of the gig One Semester (Fall/Spring) Exploring your next steps beyond My last semester work- leadership team that was has to be the people I got to $60.00 ing for The Daily Texan devoted to the Texan’s pri- meet and listening to the sto- Two Semesters (Fall & Spring) graduation can be overwhelming. If $120.00 was unpredictable, but then mary mission of keeping ries they had to tell. Summer Session again every semester at UT the UT-Austin community People like Hal, Katya, $40.00 you’re trying to narrow down your is. Kicking off senior year informed. I consider myself Ben, Nuzha and the entire One Year (Fall, Spring and Summer) $150.00 Graduate School options, we can help. with a pandemic wouldn’t lucky that Megan let me be a digital staff managed to have been my first guess, part of it; working under her produce incredible content To charge by VISA or MasterCard, call 471-5083. Send orders and address but I wouldn’t have want- direction was the greatest during such an unprecedent- changes to Texas Student Media, ed to spend the semester reward. I don’t know a better ed semester. Our side of the P.O. Box D, Austin, TX 78713-8904. Learn more about graduate degree anywhere else. coach, mentor or friend than Texan operates a little dif- Applying to the social Megan (The) Menchaca. ferently, but I couldn’t have ADVERTISING DEADLINES programs at schools around the country, media department my fresh- Leading digital operations asked for a more creative Ad space is reserved by noon at least two man year was the best deci- this semester broadened and committed staff. business days before regular publications. For and connect with their recruiters by sion of my college career. I my entire view of the Tex- Hal, your leadership far special editions and other advertising opportunities please speak with a TSM still remember walking into an. When I first started as a supersedes mine, and I can’t account executive for deadlines and additional details. The Fall 2020 publication schedule is requesting more information through an the basement for the first social media staffer, I didn’t wait to see what you accom- Tuesday and Friday. time asking for Alex. If she expect to find myself helping plish. Since UT can’t beat Contact [email protected]. online interest form. hadn’t hired me, I wouldn’t manage an entire newspa- OU in football, at least we have had the chance to work per. Before heading the de- can make up for it in Twitter COPYRIGHT for the coolest department partment over the summer, followers. Thanks to your Copyright 2020 Texas Student Media. All articles, photographs and graphics, both in at the Texan or meet some Rebeccah selected me as her dedication, we can hum- the print and online editions, are the of my best friends. I owe property of Texas Student Media and may associate editor. It was her bly say we beat Alabama not be reproduced or republished in part or my years of tweets, endless leadership example, which in something. in whole without written permission. www.graduatesoftexas.com livestreams and sleepless I could only hope to match, This semester was nothing nights to her for giving me The Daily Texan, a student newspaper at The that prepared me for my role like I expected when I first University of Texas at Austin, is published by the opportunity. at the Texan. set foot on the Forty Acres, Texas Student Media, 2500 Whitis Ave., Austin, TX 78712. Our work is made possible by support As classes moved online It wasn’t until I became but I wouldn’t have traded from our advertising partners and donors. To this fall, it was clear that provide individual support, please visit The Daily digital director that I re- the endless Zoom meetings Texan page at supportstudentvoices.org. To this semester was going to alized why I committed for anything else. When highlight your business, please email [email protected]. The Daily be a brand-new experience. so many semesters to this they say there’s a place for Texan does not publish during academic breaks, Even before classes began, most Federal Holidays and exam periods. News organization and what you @thedailytexan, they contributions will be accepted by telephone our managing editor was I’ll miss the most — aside mean it. (471-4591), or at the editorial office (HSM 2.120). Entire contents copyright 2020 Texas Student Media. Editor-In-Chief EMILY CALDWELL 4 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 OPINION EDITORIAL These issues are nothing new decisions, despite students sexual misconduct. UT must offering input through Despite a town hall last virtual town hall meet- spring, student protests, the implement ings, Student Govern- creation of a sexual miscon- concrete changes ment, The Daily Texan or duct working group and the even online. hiring of outside expertise, and listen to Over a year and a half ago, Sahotra Sarkar and Cole- the editorial board called for man Hutchison remain on student voices increased transparency from the course schedule, along University Communications. with others. next semester. The board cited several prac- It’s unacceptable, but given tices, including asking for UT’s track record on the topic, questions in advance and an not surprising. By The Daily Texan insistence on conducting inter- The editorial board has Editorial Board views via email, that reinforce covered the ongoing issue of ast semester, the various roadblocks student sexual misconduct again and the world journalists face on campus. again and again. But we have flipped up- We and other journalists at yet to see any significant policy side down. the Texan are still dealing with changes. The pandemic is not This semes- the same problems. Our col- an excuse to do the bare min- ter, the pan- umnists are repeatedly frus- imum on this matter, and we demic up- trated, and so are we. cannot allow this issue to be ended everything we thought Frustrated that we can’t get sidelined any longer. we knew — or expected to the interviews we need. Frus- Release an updated list of know — about life in college. trated we can’t publish our staff and faculty found guilty of Almost 2,000 members of our pieces on deadline because sexual misconduct. Create ac- community have contracted a communications liaison tionable steps for change. Give COVID-19, and that number has refused to respond to our students the restorative justice abriella corker / the daily texan staff continues to grow. emails and phone calls. Frus- program they were promised. trated that we can’t do our jobs We shouldn’t have to wait and acknowledge all aspects of However, despite these GALLERY “unprecedented times,” some because someone else isn’t any longer. the origins of our school song. things remain the same: doing theirs. Administrators have also We understand this song’s the lack of transparency UT All of this together is in- disregarded students’ de- vile history. We know how un- administration affords its dicative of a larger trend, one mands for UT to eliminate comfortable it makes our fel- students and its continual that student journalists on traditions that honor UT’s low students. We know Black failure to listen to student campus have been dealing racist history. students have been speaking voices. Whether it be regard- with for years. We’ve come Over the summer, a num- into the void for years about ing COVID-19 policy, online to realize that these institu- ber of Black student groups the disrespect they feel when learning, sexual misconduct tionalized problems will likely released a petition calling they hear “The Eyes of Texas.” or Black students’ demands, persist past this semester, and for UT to move UT’s culture Students know and have our University’s disregard for we’re worried that no amount away from its racist roots. been talking about these issues student advocacy has persisted of pressure will convince our Some of those demands for years. And for years, UT even through a pandemic. University to fix them. were met, either wholly or administration has pretended While we applaud the hard- This semester, we’ve largely with compromise. to hear but never actually lis- working campus staff who focused on ways to make cam- Others were not. One such tened. But that’s nothing un- keep our campus a clean and pus as safe as possible, but the demand concerned “The Eyes precedented, is it? safe environment, students pandemic isn’t the only thing of Texas.” The editorial board is com- have mostly had to fight for that threatens student safety. Instead of ending “The Eyes posed of associate editors themselves this semester. We haven’t forgotten UT ad- of Texas” tradition, our ad- Abhirupa Dasgupta, Hannah UT has largely kept stu- ministration’s failure to meet ministrators decided a better Lopez, Sanika Nayak, Julia dents in the dark about how student demands for trans- course of action would be to in- Zaksek, and editor-in-chief parency and action regarding vite the UT community to own Emily Caldwell. and why it makes critical charlie hyman / the daily texan staff

LEGALESE | Opinions expressed in The Daily Texan SUBMIT A FIRING LINE | Email your Firing Lines to RECYCLE | Once you’ve enjoyed this copy of The EDITORIAL TWITTER | Follow The Daily Texan Editorial are those of the editor, the Editorial Board or the [email protected]. Letters must be more Daily Texan, it is yours to keep or recycle. Board on Twitter (@TexanOpinion) and receive up- writer of the article. They are not necessarily those than 100 and fewer than 300 words. The Texan dates on our latest editorials and columns. of the UT administration, the Board of Regents or the reserves the right to edit all submissions for brevity, Please do not leave your copy behind or return it to Texas Student Media Board of Operating Trustees. clarity and liability. its rack. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 5 The Daily Texan’s future remains strong even amid pandemic

By Megan Menchaca at the work from the Texan in Ariana, Sami, Neelam, @meganmmenchaca the next few days or decades Areeba, Hal, Maia, Presley, from now, I hope they look Jackson, Harper, Barb, Sier- There has never been an- beyond the stories and mul- ra, Jimena, Lawson and so other semester like fall 2020 timedia and see the resilien- many more editors worked for The Daily Texan. cy of the staff of more than so hard to hold this paper For the first time in its 120- 230 hardworking, dedicated together and provide a space year history, the staff had to student journalists. for dozens of journalists create a print paper virtual- Despite working re- to grow and learn. And the ly. We temporarily stopped motely, reporters produced Texan’s talented manage- printing daily and shortened hard-hitting new stories, in- ment team — Trinady, Ja- the iconic broadsheet to a depth features and coverage son, Michael and Angelica tabloid. There were so many of sports games under the — rose above and beyond more challenges caused by unique circumstances, while to lead the paper through the coronavirus than could columnists advocated for the these unprecedented and possibly fit in a single article. University to make changes unusual circumstances. Still, we never — not once to help the student body in a While this semester was — missed a single deadline. global pandemic. certainly not without its We had our most successful Social media staffers and many difficulties or blunders, recruitment season in recent newsletter writers delivered I could not be prouder of a history. On all platforms, we the news to people when we group of people for persist- fought to hold the Universi- were more spread apart than ing through everything they ty accountable and inform ever. Photographers, videog- faced and producing some the UT community when raphers, audio producers and incredible journalism. I’ve the stakes were higher than comics illustrators brought learned this year to never ever, and we built a paper life and color to the stories be sure of anything, but I do virtually twice a week with of the campus, and designers know one thing for certain: staffers from five different and copy editors made sure The future of student jour- DEADLINE: MARCH 1, 2021 time zones. our pages shined with beau- nalism at The University of Whether people look back tiful art and clean copy. Texas at Austin is stronger Emily H, Emily C, Myah, than ever.

CHOOSE FROM THESE TOPICS: RIGHTS OF LISTENERS OR DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOVERNMENT & PRIVATE RESTRICTIONS

Essay Questions and Full Details at: www.freeespeechessay.com presley glotfelty / the daily texan staff Sponsored by the BB&T Chair for the Study of Objectvism and the Department of Philosophy 6 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 30s D+I director leaves after being charged with attempted arson of basement office

By Angelica Arinze Gracie — the news editors at down systems that don’t serve Additionally, I want to on a few BIPOC staffers in the @angelicaarin_ the time — and everyone on us or our community. (I still thank our readers and the UT newsroom. It’s going to take the fall 2019 news team for have the matches and lighter community who use their voice critical effort and awareness A little over a year ago, I helping me learn and adjust to fluid, so hmu!) to hold this paper accountable. from the majority demograph- was a fresh face on campus, the newness of UT life through Thank you to Lauren, Aree- The effort you make — big or ic of the newsroom — white, in Moody — and in The Daily the lens of reporting on ba, Neelam, Lisa, Tiana and small — in ensuring the Texan cishet women from privileged Texan basement. my community. Emily, who put Texas Stu- reports on and represents your backgrounds — to recognize I had always imagined that As a student reporter, I dent Media’s feet to the fire stories in the way they deserve how they benefit from a sys- I would spend the entirety of learned a lot about reporting, and helped draft the letter of to be told is inspiring. tem that pushes so many tal- pitching and writing — just as demands, as well as everyone There’s so many more peo- my time at UT working at The ented, marginalized individ- much as I learned about the who signed in solidarity to de- ple to thank that I can’t fit in Daily Texan, but after four in- uals out of the newsroom and systemic problems our news- mand better for our commu- the inch count, but just know sightful semesters, I think my build a more equitable system room has and how much needs nity and the future of student that I appreciate you for in- time at the paper has come to so all can thrive and prevail at to be changed. journalism. Standing up to a spiring and empowering me an end. this paper. Thank you to Tiana, Faith powerful system is hard, and to be a better journalist along As I leave this newsroom I remember first walking and Lisa for being there for I couldn’t have done it with- the way. behind, my biggest advice to into the basement for tryouts me, lending an ear and encour- out y’all’s help. Community There’s no doubt that this those coming after me (espe- and reluctantly heading to the aging me to not only join the is power. paper still has a lot to reckon cially those from marginalized news desk, a small, slightly Diversity and Inclusion Board Thank you to the fall 2020 with. It needs major restruc- backgrounds interested in D+I hidden corner in the basement but also stick up for myself and Board for ensuring that D+I is turing and amending that office on Whitis. envision a student newsroom here to stay and has a place in won’t and shouldn’t be solved work): If you find yourself in From there, I would end up that can better treat our staff this newsroom. I hope I made in just a semester or two. a system, institution or envi- spending my first semester at and serve our community. y’all feel empowered, and I am It’s also important to recog- ronment that is fundamental- UT as a general news report- More importantly, thank y’all indebted to y’all’s hard work, nize that change can’t materi- ly underserving you and your er. I thank Megan, Savana and for empowering me to burn passion and dedication. alize by shouldering the work community, burn it down.

EARN COLLEGE CREDITS OVER THE HOLIDAYS!

DECEMBER mini 3WEEK ONLINE CLASSES BEGIN DEC. 14

kirsten hahn / the daily texan staff

REGISTER KILGORE.EDU TODAY! 903 9838209 Director of Diversity & Inclusion ANGELICA ARINZE D&I FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 7 We’re not done yet: What The Daily Texan Di- versity and Inclusion Board, management did to improve inclusivity in newsroom By The Diversity and staff for membership in minority Organizations. Students will gain Jason Lihuang | fall 2020 asso- Inclusion Board Within the newsroom: journalism organizations, such as a specific understanding of sit- ciate managing editor @texaninclusion We have created a hir- the National Association of Black uations faced by those student Michael Hernandez | fall 2020 ing guide that requires all Journalists, National Association media managers, analyze and director of digital strategy In August, the Diversity and In- paid staff to be interviewed of Hispanic Journalists, Asian evaluate case studies and prob- Angelica Arinze | fall 2020 di- clusion Board members from both and requires those hiring to American Journalists Associa- lem-solve management issues versity + inclusion director the summer and previous semes- submit written explanations tion, NLGJA: The Association of faced by newsrooms, from stu- Ariana Arredondo | fall 2020 ters published a letter addressed to explaining why each paid staff LGBTQ Journalists and more. dent media to major networks and co-internal relations director and The Daily Texan management and member will be hired prior We have earmarked future media outlets. Life&Arts editor Texas Student Media. The letter to hiring. funding for community outreach Areeba Amer | fall 2020 co-in- said, “The Daily Texan newsroom To further ensure fairness in and conferences by the D+I Board. We have made progress. How- ternal relations director and news has not always been as welcom- hiring, the diversity and inclusion ever, the newsroom is by no means desk editor ing and inclusive as it should and director will take on the role of Within Texas Student Media: perfect, and there is still work to be Neelam Bohra | fall 2020 col- can be,” and listed ways the Texan hiring director at the beginning Texas Student Media created a done to create a diverse and in- laborations director and associate should improve. of the semester to help the man- portal for all members of staff to clusive space for all at The Daily news editor At the time, members of the aging editor in overseeing hiring submit their thoughts on candi- Texan. We are planning on and Emily Hernandez | fall 2020 summer management team and and recruitment. dates for managing editor prior to are committed to continuing our news editor the fall 2020 managing editor re- We have created a Diversity and their appointment. diversity and inclusion efforts for Lauren Girgis | fall 2020 associ- leased a statement, as did Texas Inclusion Handbook that includes We have revised the governing the betterment of the newsroom. ate news editor Student Media, which oversees the implementation of permanent documents of TSM to include a Gerald Johnson | director for the Texan. fixtures, such as the staffwide clause making the D+I director Signed: Texas Student Media Since then, the original writ- demographic survey, objectivity a permanent fixture at the Tex- Emily Caldwell | 2020-2021 ed- Anuj Mocherla | president of ers of the letter along with the training for all staff members and an, pending approval from the itor-in-chief the board of Texas Student Media fall 2020 D+I Board and Texan coverage tracking of all stories TSM Board. Megan Menchaca | fall 2020 Kathleen McElroy | director management have worked to ad- and sources. The TSM director will au- managing editor of the School of Journalism and dress the demands and improve We will be publishing an dit and ensure that the D+I di- Trinady Joslin | fall 2020 asso- Media the newsroom. A Texas Student end-of-semester report by the rector is paid a stipend every ciate managing editor Media D+I Working Group was end of this academic year that will semester that is equitable to formed, and we have met nu- include coverage tracking of the similar roles in the newsroom. merous times throughout the diversity of our reporting and the semester to work through the results of the demographic survey Within the Moody College of Commu- letter demands. from fall 2020. nication: Here is the progress we’ve made so far: We have created an application The School of Journalism process and earmarked annual created a class for spring 2021 funding to sponsor newsroom titled J349T Diversity in News

barbra daly / the daily texan staff THE UNIVERSE DOESN’T END AT YOUR UNIVERSITY. Beatrice Tinsley Become a scholar of Just swipe your the city for free with ID when you board. your UT Student ID and discover what lies beyond the 40 Acres!

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Before embarking on your journey, remember to ride with CARE! A face covering is required to use CapMetro services. Ready to roll? Plan your trip at: CapMetro.org/planner 30s FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 9 Former copy desk chief finally learns to accept mistakes

By Brittany Miller @thedailytexan

It’s hard to find a nice, neat story to sum up my experiences at the Texan. But one not-so- nice moment at the beginning of fall 2018 taught me a lesson I still carry with me. You see, my first shift as a p-staffer was the night the in- famous “Welcome back freshman” headline was produced. And I was the brand-new ACDC who wrote it. Obviously, my stomach sank when I realized we welcomed back one single freshman instead of the entire class of 2022. I showed up the next day and saw my new boss “getting roasted” by everyone for the mistake. I realized a) I needed to befriend her and b) I wanted to be a part of an organization where we have room to mess up, can laugh about it and become better for it. I have become a better mistake-maker, editor, co-worker, leader and friend because of the people at the Texan. Lisa, Kirsten, Megan and Tiana — I don’t know how I jack myer / the daily texan staff would have survived March if I wasn’t surrounded by such em- on how late sports content To my copy family – My and you’re a fantastic editor. you my papers for edits forever. pathetic, thoughtful and smart would come in. time with y’all has been filled Lawson, your positivity and joy Kirsten — Thank you for women who weren’t afraid to Myah and Stephen, we still with support, laughs, love and bring a needed light-hearted- having my back, whether it was lead with vulnerability and have one more pun to write. funny memes. Thank you for ness to the team. Jimena, thank taking the fall for the “fresh- open hearts. Sierra, Christina, Maria and helping me enjoy nights in you for being a good friend and man” incident or encouraging Marcus and Sami — I will Megan — Y’all handled the the basement. always having my back. I know me to do the things that scare always have a bottle of wine move to virtual designing and Irissa, the personality test I can count you to rip anyone’s me. I miss stifling laughs at ready to share with y’all. page edits virtually this sum- guru, you probably know me ass up for me. maestro with you. I hope we Donnie, Myah, Stephen and mer so gracefully. Thank you better than I know myself. You Jason — Our pact stuck! I am keep this long con up. the rest of sports — Thank you for making page edits fun and are one of the most intentional so honored to begin and finish To everyone still on their for answering all of my sports typing in ridiculous headlines and thoughtful people I know. Texan journeys or considering questions (I still don’t under- for us. Phoebe, I miss our Sunday our Texan journey together. stand golf). I never thought I Amna, Presley and Jack — night conversations! You are Thank you for making me laugh starting, take the chance. Do would miss sitting in the of- Y’all have been a blast to work authentically you, and I admire and listening to my vents for the thing that scares you. And fice next to sports, but I do. with. Thank you for making me that. Megan, you have such a the last three years. You make practice being OK when things Although, I don’t miss the bets excited to come to work. warm and welcoming presence, me a better editor. I will send don’t go the way you planned. 10 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 COVER STORY

CITY After a summer of pro- Liberation Coalition, tests calling to defund a student communist looking the police, the Austin group, organized a No- City Council voted in Au- vember protest calling UT gets a new president, back gust to cut $150 million for the dissolution of the special pass/fail and Q-drop from the Austin Police UT and Austin Police De- SPORTS Department’s budget to partments and Texas De- policies approved and Big Ticket holders were program before football fund alternative forms partment of Public Safety required to either test games or provide proof of of public safety. The presence near campus. Biden-Harris campaign wins. negative for COVID-19 COVID-19 immunity, but through UT’s Proac- other ticket holders were By The Daily Texan Staff tive Community Testing not required to. STATE @thedailytexan Democrat Texas trict for the last four ACADEMICS House Member Gina years, defeating Re- Hinojosa won Tex- publican Charles Allan UNIVERSITY Two weeks before six-drop limit. Some stu- as’ 49th District after Meyer and Libertarian finals, UT announced dents were disappoint- The UT System president of the Uni- representing the dis- Kenneth Moore. Board of Regents unan- versity on Sept. 21 after students could pass/ ed the policy deviated imously approved Jay he served as interim fail three classes across from a faculty plan and Hartzell as permanent president since June 1. the fall 2020 and spring supported student leg- VOTING 2021 semesters and still islation, while advisers count them toward de- were frustrated their in- Early voting for the Around 125,000 more grees. Q-drops will also puts were not included in 2020 general election ballots were cast in Tra- not count toward the the changes. lasted through Oct. 30, vis County for the 2020 six days longer than general election than the early voting in 2016. 2016 election.

CAMPUS In July, UT denied a a teach-in and ceremony 2016 request by the Mi- and Indigenous students akan-Garza Band to re- presented to UT Presi- turn Indigenous remains dent Jay Hartzell, Hartz- being stored at the Texas ell said UT will seek guid- Archeological Research ance from the National Laboratory. In Septem- Park Service to offer the ber, after the tribe hosted remains for reburial.

eddie gaspar / the daily texan file

amna ijaz / the daily texan file CAMPUS Former Vice President Joe Biden won the presidential election against standing President Donald Trump in Due to COVID-19, In September, the Uni- November. about two-thirds of fall versity reported three classes were online, COVID-19 clusters in NATION while the remaining West Campus, and at in-person classes in- least two staff members Former Vice President Sen. Kamala Harris, cluded capacity limits died from COVID-19 Joe Biden was elected D-Calif., will be the first and mask and social dis- complications since the 46th president of the woman, first Indian tancing requirements. the summer. United States on Nov. 7. American and first Afri- presley glotfelty / the daily texan staff President Donald Trump can American to hold the Members of the Maikan-Garza Band gather for an is contesting the results, office of the vice presi- Indigenous cultural teach-in in front of the J. J. Pickle incorrectly claiming dent. According to the Research Center on Sept. 7, 2020. They protested the there was widespread team’s website, their pri- University’s decision not to return the remains of three Miakan-Garza Band members. voter fraud among mul- ority will be combating tiple battleground states. the COVID-19 pandemic. 11

looking Graduation may be in person, UT faces more forward lawsuits and a COVID-19 vaccine is in the works.

By The Daily Texan Staff @thedailytexan CAMPUS

UT will offer al- undergo COVID-19 LAWSUITS most 60% of spring testing when return- classes online with ing in the spring as One of the lawsuits the Uni- a similar number the pandemic ac- versity will be facing next se- of courses having celerates nation- mester is from a former pho- online, hybrid and wide. University tographer who sued Bevo XV’s in-person modality Health Services owners and handlers after the as in the fall semes- will continue to ad- longhorn injured him. The 5th ter. Students living minister COVID-19 United States Circuit Court of in residence halls tests for students, Appeals revived a 2018 lawsuit may be required to faculty and staff. presley glotfelty / the daily texan staff students filed saying the Uni- versity’s free speech policies vi- olate the First and 14th amend- GRADUATION eddie gaspar / the daily texan file ments. A history professor filed a lawsuit claiming he faced Graduates will tual. This would be The University will be facing several lawsuits next semester, including one from 2018 that was revived retaliation for distributing a re- possibly attend an the University’s first from the 5th United States Circuit Court of Appeals. port highlighting race-related in-person graduation in-person gradua- pay disparities. in the spring semes- tion during the pan- ter. The 2020 spring demic, with mask and fall graduations requirements and an were and will be vir- attendance cap. ‘THE EYES OF TEXAS’

“The Eyes of Band was unable Texas” Univer- to play the alma sity committee mater because will analyze the too many players, song’s origins and pointing to the present their find- song’s racist or- ings in January. igins, refused to UT President Jay participate, and Hartzell created students called to the committee af- “Rewrite Not Re- ter the Longhorn claim” the song. eddie gaspar / the daily texan file amna ijaz / the daily texan file The Longhorn Band plays during the football A screenshot from the livesteam of the Spring game against Baylor on Nov. 23, 2019. 2020 Graduation Commencement. TEXAS LEGE designating polling places on college VACCINE OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING off-campus apartments. APD reported The 87th Texas campuses, providing 450 COVID-19 policy violations for Legislative Session suicide prevention Students are worried about wheth- large gatherings and noise complaints will begin Jan. 12 information on stu- COVID-19 vacci- Centers for Disease er to secure housing for the spring in West Campus since classes began with nearly 900 bills dent identification nations, several of Control and Preven- as COVID-19 addendums are add- Aug. 26 through Nov. 11. Amid gath- filed so far. More cards and regulating which use research tion’s guidelines to ed to some off-campus residenc- ering limits, city officials shut down at than 100 bills are the carrying of hand- from UT scientists, distribute vaccines es and UT increases rent for its least one party in West Campus. guns at higher edu- are in the final stag- in phases. There are education-related. cation institutions. es of approval by no current plans to Bills filed include the federal govern- make the vaccine ment. UT is pre- mandatory to re- paring for distribu- turn to campus in tion, following the the spring. 12 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 30s Design editor goes against Capricorn tendencies by choosing to work less

By Sierra Wiggers today. Andrea, thank you for always being a helping hand. basement a place I looked for- An additional thanks to semester or sat and waited for @sierrawiggers taking a chance on me when I’m looking forward to continu- ward to going to. Most of all those outside of the office. me to do “this one last thing” I was a quiet little freshman ing our chaos in TXC. Addition- though, thank you, Jimena. To my roommates, who have when I check Slack and see I I am more than aware of how and for promoting me to keep ally, the designers who survived You are the closest friend I’ve heard endless rants or put up missed an important message. ironic it is that I have worked at working until I got this far. an entire semester of remote made in my time here, and with me coming home after I know it probably sounds one of the best student newspa- Christiana and Reneé, thank production, many gold stars without a doubt, I would have working until 2 a.m., and my like I hated this job, but I’m not pers for almost three years, yet you for making such positive to y’all. had a minimum of three men- friends who pick up a copy just THAT much of a masochist. I remain a subpar writer. changes to the department The times when we worked tal breakdowns if we hadn’t to make me feel better. And of It’s been a rough last semester I’ll try to keep it short since while I was a senior design- in a physical office almost seem had those quarantined produc- course, to Kennedy, who has (but who hasn’t had a rough this will probably be rough. er. It made the transition so like a lifetime ago, but I prob- tion nights this semester. I’m patiently watched me emu- semester?), and still I wouldn’t I really did not know what I much easier. ably had some of my favorite currently making virtual grilled late that picture of Coraline’s take back any of my time was getting myself into the fall To those currently in the college experiences (so far) in cheeses for all four of you. dad every Monday night this spent here. of freshman year. I was an ex- design department who had to that shithole. I could not have “yerd” just looking to replace deal with my antics … I’m sorry. stayed this long if the peo- the die-hard love of slaving There were times in the sum- ple who work here weren’t so over something people barely mer that I had next to no idea damn awesome. Without the read. So of course I stumbled what I was doing, but Christi- many heated debates, music across the Texan. And I’m real- na, Megan and Maria managed talks and award-show viewings ly glad I did. to keep a straight face while to come back to, y’all would First, I’d like to thank the I struggled to make meetings not have seen me after that members of the design de- fun. Maria, I especially could all-nighter for the OU paper partment before me who not have stayed sane without last fall. Kirsten, Donnie, Alex, inspired me to get where I am you by my side. Thanks for y’all helped make that dingy

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jamie hwang / the daily texan staff 30s FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 13 Associate design editor writes this column as InDesign crashes yet again

By Maria Perez The Daily Texan was the trifecta for keeping me sane I also thank Christina, Texas Creative and into the succeeding in a University @pariamerez only place that didn’t give me in the basement and provid- Megan and Eunice for be- top positions of this depart- and a newspaper that has an immediate rejection. ing me with endless laughs ing such stellar senior de- ment together. Thank you historically failed to serve After an emotionally trau- I walked into my design as I sweat through deadlines. signers/dogs/demons and for letting my introverted my people, the guilt has matic stint as a reporter and tryout with my only Adobe I cannot name you all, but for being willing to try new self cling on to you at Tex- never left me and has only editor-in-chief of my high InDesign experience be- know I appreciate you. things with us. I am excit- an parties and for sharing gotten worse. school newspaper, I told my- ing from the intro video I Christiana assigned me to ed to see where y’all take your love of Tyler, the Cre- I am a proud member self I would never work for watched the night before. double coverage in fall 2019. this department. ator with me. I long to be of my respective com- another newspaper. I thank you, Mireya, for I may have been two hours To every issue staffer who half the designer you are, munities before I am an I kept my word for a total watching me hopelessly fum- late for deadline during my has worked under me: Al- and I would’ve left this place underpaid designer at a of one semester in college. ble around on the software first week, and I may not though I was your boss on a long time ago if it weren’t college newspaper. One day during winter and still giving me a chance. have had a social life that production nights, it was for our friendship. Here’s to I’ve had so much success break of 2018, I impulsive- Kirsten and Mireya be- entire semester, but I truly really me who learned from Virgo/Capricorn solidarity. and growth at this paper ly decided I wanted to became my first friends at this believe it was double cov- you. Thanks for being the I am thankful for what this while my BIPOC peers have come a graphic designer. I paper. I felt like I could really erage that gave me the ex- best on-the-job teachers I paper brought me, but to to live with both the trau- then began applying for ev- make it here thanks to your perience and discipline to could ask for. be honest, life at the Texan ma of existing in this world ery design opportunity on kindness and support. launch my career. And it’s all And to Sierra. My partner- hasn’t been the same for me and the trauma instilled on campus despite not having I also thank the infa- because Christiana saw my in-crime. We became friends since the release of the D+I them by their peers and su- any experience. mous Design-Sports-Copy willingness to learn. while finessing our way into letter this summer. pervisors at this paper. How After reading through the do I even begin to live with letter and reading about how that truth? other BIPOC have been treat- The answer is that I can’t. ed by peers and supervisors So I must leave. who are supposed to look out To the higher-ups at The for us, I couldn’t help but feel Daily Texan and TSM: You somewhat guilty. are not doing enough. The As a first-generation, Af- goals haven’t been met. ro-Latinx college student Do better.

rocky higine/ the daily texan staff 14 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 30s Self-proclaimed social chair leaves without throwing one last rager By Nicole Stuessy bags used in the process of As self-proclaimed social @nicolestuessy returning my West Campus chair, I led The Daily Flexins, apartment to a normal state our co-ed intramural bas- One perk about leaving the after a Texan party, but I’ve ketball team, to one semi-fi- Texan during a pandemic se- missed the people. Some- nal appearance and many mester is that I didn’t have to thing about sitting around more games resulting in low throw the orientation party, the ping-pong-turned-con- sportsmanship ratings. To the Last Night of Print Party ference-table somewhat de- any RecSports employee who or any of the random ones in lirious at 10 p.m. on a week- worked one of our games: between. My roommates and night giving weekly highs and I’m sorry. neighbors are thankful. lows with the news staff just Since fall 2017, I’ve worked I haven’t missed the count- hit in a way a Zoom meeting in the news and projects de- less Swiffer pads and trash could never. partments in various reporting and editing roles. After three unpaid semesters as a general reporter — which I’m pretty sure is the record — and a thrilling semester covering construc- tion on campus, I’m glad I stuck around to remotely lead an extremely talented staff of news reporters and editors this summer. I learned a lot during my time in the news department. Most of that was how to confidently approach strangers on Speedway for an interview or how to pitch stories copyright nicole stuessy, and reproduced with permission when there seemed to be nothing happening at UT, Sami, you’ve been a great reason to hang out in the times than I can count. but I’m without a doubt a editor, and you’ve been an sports department on occa- To my roommates, thanks better writer and journal- even better friend. Here’s to sion. It would get lonely over for putting up with the ist for it. keeping the Hot Girl Summer in the news department. parties, giving me rides In my time in the base- legacy alive. Neelam and Emily, I and bringing me dinner ment, I’ve been lucky Meara and Chad, y’all couldn’t have asked for when needed. enough to meet some of are absolute legends. Jour- better associate news ed- To my mom and her Face- the most talented writers, nalism classes would have itors this summer. I can’t book friends, thanks for be- designers, photographers, been much less interesting wait to see what y’all do ing my biggest fans over the artists and editors serving without y’all. next for this paper and the years. When I thought no the UT community. Even Kirsten, I don’t know how UT community. one would read my articles, working completely re- we survived some of those Peter, so sad we could nev- y’all would. motely, the Texan contin- IM games. Thanks for al- er arrange that sand volley- And finally to the Texan, ues to raise the bar for col- ways being down to talk ball game. thanks for giving me a place legiate newsrooms across about basketball strategy and To anyone I’ve ever ap- to belong on campus. As the country. “The Bachelor.” proached on campus looking graduation approaches next Working at the Texan Stephen, thanks for being for a quote, thanks for not semester, I know I will take wasn’t always easy, but the best sports documenta- running away. You saved me my experience from here into these people made it fun: ry partner and giving me a from missing deadline more my career. 30s FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 15 After 5 semesters at Texan, projects reporter says goodbye

By Meara Isenberg and support. @mearaannee Nicole, thanks for being the first friend I made at the It feels strange to be writing Texan. You’ve always been this column now, when I feel supportive of me, and I’m so disconnected from campus. really grateful for that. You’ve I’m taking remote classes definitely helped make my this semester — and have experience at the Texan fun. been since the spring 2020 Chad, Megan, Savana, semester, when students were Gracie, Neelam and everyone asked not to return to campus else I met while working as in response to the COVID-19 a reporter for the Texan: pandemic. I haven’t walked You all made my time there around campus, or visited memorable. Same to Anna, The Daily Texan basement, Lisa D, Brittany and the other in months. news desk editors that I spent But The Daily Texan has long evening hours in the continued to connect me with basement with editing stories. the Forty Acres during this Peter, thank you for time. I’m feeling grateful for reading all of my stories all that the paper has offered over the years and providing me over the years, especially helpful feedback. I keep those now. Not only has it allowed suggestions in mind as I work me to edit and write stories on new stories. about things that interest I joined the Texan as a me, but it’s also connected general reporter in the fall me to great people who of 2017 and became a senior are passionate about what reporter covering the West they do and have helped me Campus area in 2018. From through the often challenging summer 2018 to summer but rewarding experience of 2019, I worked as a news working for the paper. desk editor and, briefly, an Sami and Raga, I feel lucky associate news editor. to have joined you guys on After spending a year away, the City/State beat freshman I’ve been lucky to be welcomed year. You’re fantastic back for a summer and courtesy of meara isenberg journalists and friends, and semester before I graduate, I’m really excited to see what working on longer stories. I’ll miss the ping-pong miss the reliable basement For those of you trying to could have as a college lies ahead for you. I’ve been energized by fellow table, the corkboard in the vending machine, which came decide what to get involved journalist. You will learn London, Catherine, Chase, staffers at the Texan who have news department decorated in handy during a long news with during your time at great skills and connect with Lisa N, Maria and many worked tirelessly during the with funny photos of staffers, desk editing shift. I’ll miss others — thank you for UT, I can tell you honestly hardworking and passionate COVID-19 pandemic. They’ve the random times there the feeling of working with leaving an impact on me as that working at the Texan students at UT. I’m grateful continued to make the Texan would be Domino’s pizza other students and friends in a less experienced staffer. I for all of the lessons and a publication that I’m proud in the basement, or even the basement — though I’ve will be one of the most appreciate all your guidance to be a part of. better, Tiff’s Treats. I’ll also missed that for a while. rewarding experiences you memories it’s given me.

30s FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 17 Projects reporter gets overly pensive for final time

By Marcus Krum for the time that we spent @marcuskrum together in the office. I’ll miss the conspiracy theories and I’ve found that oftentimes, the random arguments about sports are more poetic how the mecca of basketball than not. is in Brooklyn (it’s true). OK, I know what you’re Daniela, you were a joy to thinking — that statement work with and be around, and is melodramatic, borderline you always pushed me to be outlandishly so. And you’d better. Stephen, you’re one of probably be right. Come to the hardest workers I’ve ever think of it, there are plenty met. I’m going to miss you of times when sports fall into guys dearly, but I know we’ll dull, lifeless monotony. always be able to bond over But I’ll choose to believe roasting Donnie for being a that sports are like poetry Knicks fan. because when they are, those Myah, you’ve been an are the moments that you absolute joy to work with, remember. Those moments and watching you grow as when time loops back into a reporter (and as a good itself, when the perfect friend of mine) has been one symmetry or asymmetry of an of the true joys of working event captures you — that’s here. Sami and Brittany, when the real magic of sports never forget summer 2020. It reveals itself. wouldn’t have been the same I’ll give an example, since without you guys. Leading a I’m speaking in complete remote newsroom was a hell gibberish. The first Texas of a challenge, but I learned a football game I attended was lot because of y’all. my freshman year when the To so many others in Longhorns took a crushing the sports department and blow at the hands of the otherwise, there’s too many mighty Maryland Terrapins of y’all to mention, and I (the first of two). The last don’t have space because I’ve Texas football game I overwritten everything I’ve attended as a student was the ever written. But I’m thankful absolutely gut-wrenching loss for each person I met in to Iowa State last Saturday. the basement. Beautiful, right? Mom, thanks for actually I’ve found that everyday reading my stories (and life frequently gives way to telling me when I made a moments like these if you’re mistake). Dad, thanks for paying close enough attention being an outlet for my rants (which I often am not). Over about Texas football. Thanks the last four years, The Daily to both of y’all for pushing me Texan has given me countless to pursue my dreams. moments in time that I The end here seems cherish dearly. anything but poetic. I’m Alex and Ross, you guys sitting at my desk, alone, in gave me a chance at this my house a couple miles away paper, for which I’m forever from the basement and all grateful. More than that, y’all the people I’ve worked with. were the first ones to make But maybe the poetry in all me feel welcome down in the this is that being away makes basement, for which I’m even me cherish those times in the more grateful. You guys are office even more. all right. Nah, you’re right. I’m just Donnavan, I’m thankful being dramatic. courtesy of marcus krum 30s FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 18 Photo editor won’t miss file requests, but she’ll miss everything else

courtesy of presley glotfelty

By Presley Glotfelty photo editor. It’s something But doing full-time and will go so far in this to express how grateful I y’all grow into amazing @presleyjg that’s made me consider school, working a part-time life with your skills, hard am that you accepted me photographers, and I’d like I was a transfer student becoming a teacher to job and being a full-time work and kindness. Each onto the team when I first to think I had some part that worked on a small educate the next generation editor during a pandemic, I of you masters a skill, transferred to UT. You in that, but I know it was newspaper at my last on photojournalism. decided it was time to go in a and it was a privilege taught me everything about always inside of each of you. university and never The ride was not an easy new direction. to learn them from you the photo department and To everyone at The Daily imagined I would make feat. Some photo requests I’ve come to realize that this semester. how to be a photojournalist, Texan, you have been a it into The Daily Texan. I drove me insane. I lost my college photojournalists are To Amna, who put and you were careful to great addition to my family. always thought I was a small patience with limited access my favorite people. We are me under her wing my critique my work and push This is not goodbye, but a fish in a big pond. due to coronavirus and went all a bunch of weirdos with sophomore year as associate me to be more than I ever pleasant reminder to always Now, after a year and a half crazy over the ridiculously cameras trying to make a photo editor, thank you thought I could. stay in touch. Who knows, in the photo department, slow server access from my difference. I am forever for teaching me what it To my photographers — maybe we’ll meet in another I’ve learned so much about personal laptop, but I don’t grateful for my permanent means to be a good leader. you were my guinea pigs, newsroom someday, and what it means to be a regret a single moment of staff who put up with my To not get run over, but but I think y’all turned I’ll take pictures for your photojournalist and how to it. I found a place where late work hours and still also show kindness and out all right. I hope I gave stories again. teach new photographers the I belonged and that made made our department understanding. You will you valuable skills you The only thing I have left meaning of our job and how sense to me — my brain look phenomenal. Jamie, always be my inspiration can take into your career to say is that, UT football, to do it well. I didn’t realize loved shifting through Jack, Kirsten and Nick … and good friend. and life itself, because you I’m comin’ for ya. One way how much I loved teaching the chaos that is a college y’all are the most talented Eddie, there’s not enough definitely taught me some. or another, I will finally photography until becoming newspaper. photographers I know thank-you’s in the world It was a pleasure watching shoot pictures on that field. Comics Editor BARBRA DALY COMICS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 19 20 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 30s Copy desk chief writes last headline, finally gets a byline

By Jimena Pinzon @jimenapinzonm

From the day I was admit- ted to UT, I knew I wanted to work at the Texan. Like all the annoying high school yearbook kids, I made my way to the basement with confidence a bit too high and a truckload of freshman naïveté. Quickly, the copy department became home. There’s something really special about late nights in that poorly lit, crick- et-infested basement. I never thought a little desk all the way in the back of the office would lead me to so many amazing people, and I never thought I would lead a department, but I would never trade it for the world. The Texan is not without its faults. There is still so much to be done to make this a safe, inclusive environment for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ staff. Promises of change have been made, but not many have been met. Ac- countability is essential, and I will continue to support and encourage progressive decisions so our newsroom no longer pushes talented individuals copyright jimena pinzon, and reproduced with permission away. New leaders have a lot of work to do. This isolated semester would will forever cherish the cursed were real until I met Kirsten. for always laughing at my not- hectic schedule. not have been successful with- Super Tuesday. If you know, Thank you for being my work- so-funny jokes. And for still Megan, our fearless manag- out the team of wonderful wom- you know. out buddy, therapist, playlist talking to me after I stepped on ing editor, thank you for not en by my side. Lawson, thank I would never have lasted in maker, Yellow Tail aficionado, Gremlin. Alex, I guess you’re firing me. I know I would have. you for putting up with my scat- this high-stress environment if hangover sister and so much not like other boys. Donnie, I Trinady, I admire your tenacity tered brain since our Monday it weren’t for my longtime sup- more. My life is beautiful be- hate to break it to you, but Ste- and work ethic. I’ll see your by- work nights. You keep me sane, port system. Brittany, thank cause you are in it. By the vie Wonder really is blind. line in the big pages someday. or at least as sane as I can be. you for making me feel heard way, I still haven’t told anyone Mom and Dad, thank you for Last but certainly not least: Irissa, you’ve taught me how to and loved every day. Picnics about Whataburger. staying up for so many semes- To all the sports writers, thank be a better friend to myself and and coffee dates with you are Sierra — I would not have ters of 1 a.m. “I’m home” texts you for replying to my editing to others. My heart is bigger my favorite. Jason, I never survived the last three semes- after working. I will now have texts and always taking the because of you. Phoebe, thank knew anyone more chaotic than ters without you. Thank you a normal bedtime, I promise. time to explain the most basic you for always being there and me could exist, until I met you. for always trying new coffee To my lovely roommates, thank sports concepts. I hope you feel for your amazing little earrings. I love you for that. places, introducing me to the you for listening to my endless relieved you will never receive Megan, queen of iced mochas, I I wasn’t sure soulmates best vegan eats in Austin, and rants and always supporting my another one.