Letter from the Editor

Cover Art Credit: Colin Bridges ’26, Washington and Lee University

Header art by Colin Bridges '26 of a wrecking ball going into a skyscraper

Dear Mudd Journal Readers and Perusers,

As my tenure as Editor-in-Chief comes to a close, reflecting on the growth and development of this publication throughout the past four years has been paramount to my campus experience. Together, the editorial board and Mudd Center staff continue to define new directions and shape the interdisciplinary, ethical, and visionary voices that compose our collaborative work. As the Journal continues to evolve, each emerging theme brings a broadened perspective and depth of ideas.

Interwoven through this year’s publication is an exploration of institutional crisis and grappling with responses to urgent times. A contextualization of the world around us through the lens of pressing issues engages the reader by addressing relevant topics of discussion in an ever-evolving environment. The annual Mudd Center theme of “Taking Place: Land Use and Environmental Impact” highlights the forces of nature that shape and shift our views. 

As the Journal’s journey continues, I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a cohesive, collaborative, and truly kind editorial board that works together seamlessly. I am thankful for Professor Kerin, Kate Saacke, and Dan Ranweiler for their unwavering effort, dedication, and advice. Lastly, I am so appreciative of Saaraim Nunez and Kaia Lain, my fellow leadership team members, for their humor, care, and heart. And thank you to our readers: your interpretation and interaction with the journal is what makes the work worthwhile.

Cordially,
Amanda Tan

The views, opinions, and conclusions expressed in student‑authored works published [in this journal / on this website] are those of their respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of Washington and Lee University or the Mudd Center or its administrators, faculty, or staff.