The Ionian will be experiencing a changing of the guard when current editor-in-chief Heather Nannery graduates this May. After an informal vote taken by the current Ionian editorial board, the staff unanimously selected current sophomore Julie Donato as the Ionian’s next editor-in-chief. From Waterbury, Conn., Donato is no stranger to the position of editor-in-chief as she held the position on Sacred Heart High School’s student newspaper, The Forum- not to mention her experience as managing editor of the Ionian over the past year and a half. As a member of the Honors Program and a public relations major, Donato says her interest in journalism stems from her overall interest in mass communications, as well as her love of writing and editing. While trying to decide which clubs and organizations to get involved with during her first semester at Iona, Donato was immediately drawn to the school newspaper. This was not only because of her past experiences, but also because she knew it would be a great way to meet people and to interact with the entire Iona College community. Although there are obvious fears with undertaking such an important role, Donato is excited to assume the new responsibilities and excited to implement her ideas for the Ionian. “I’m most looking forward to getting to know even more people on campus, including campus administrators, and to try new things with the staff,” Donato said. “I’m also looking forward to working with the awesome editorial board we have set up for next year.” The Ionian’s new editorial board shares Donato’s enthusiasm for the upcoming year and expresses great confidence in the Ionian under Donato’s leadership. “Julie is the perfect person to run this newspaper,” said junior and newly appointed Managing Editor Meaghan McGoldrick. “She’s dedicated, hardworking and has a heart fit for an editor-in-chief. I know she’s nervous, but I have no doubt in my mind that she will be an amazing asset to the Ionian.” The Ionian staff is already looking forward to the upcoming year. They set several goals they hope to achieve to further improve the newspaper both in print and online. “Our goals for next year include updating our layout in the print issue as well as updating our Web site, something that we are currently in the process of and are hoping to have up and running for our first issue of the new school year,” said Donato. “We also want to better integrate and utilize social media for our readers and followers.” Donato also said that she would like to hold more activities for the entire staff in order to build a greater bond between staff writers and editors. Just as most incoming presidents seek to build upon the legacy and foundation set by their predecessors, Donato’s goals build upon the legacy and foundation set by Nannery. “I’ve learned a lot from working with Heather. I hope to build upon what she has taught me and to continue on our vision for where we want to see the newspaper go,” Donato said. Although the new editorial board will possess fresh ideas and perspectives, they vow to uphold The Ionian’s tradition of excellence. Joining Donato as editor-in-chief and McGoldrick as managing editor are junior Amanda Kelly as news editor, freshman Mackenzie Mennucci as features editor, junior Rachel Marie Paquin as arts and entertainment editor, junior Mike Ritz as sports editor, junior Kara Nowakowski as copy editor, junior Ranisha Singh as web manager, junior Monique Pelletier as advertising manager and freshman Christina Raymond as photo editor.