Since its conception in 1902, the Trinitonian has brought the Trinity community weekly unbiased journalism. Countless students have contributed to our publication — writing, reporting, photographing and illustrating — as well as carrying out their “student-first” responsibilities. While this year is undoubtedly unlike any our predecessors have faced before, the paper will go on. It is fundamental to the survival of our community.

While the world has been turned on its head, the Trinitonian staff of over 50 students has been growing and working harder than ever to gear up for our first issue. Because our tight-knit community has dispersed throughout the country, and even outside of it, it is our responsibility to diligently report the news and make that news accessible to everyone, no matter how far away they are from Trinity’s campus. Our job has always been to report the news, but this year, people’s lives depend on our reporting. COVID-19 is spreading at an alarming rate, with no end in sight. When people are misinformed, they make misinformed decisions that could result in the illness and death of others. We don’t take this lightly, and we are committed to keeping our community informed.

For our students on campus, we are continuing a print version to add to the sense of community we pride ourselves in and want to maintain during a time where not much else feels “normal.” We want the experience of opening a Trinitonian to be a unifier. For those of you that are not able to access a print copy, an experience unique on its own, there will now be a digital version to ‘flip through’ on our website. We encourage you to follow in the footsteps of Trinity students past, and read the paper as we turn the metaphorical page and experience this unusual time together.

Socialization is a unifier, upperclassmen take first-years under their wing, show them the ropes and sometimes give those “what are you doing”; “why are you wearing a highschool track shirt” looks. This component has been altered for the time being. Maybe this component is missing this year. Maybe the local upper class men will do their part. But maybe the first-years will continue to be their quirky, highschool selves. Would practicing your instrument on the Esplanade be weird any other year? Potentially, but this is a weird year and our campus should be filled with noise, if not the noise of students chatting between bustling passing periods. Besides, you’ll bring some smiles to people underneath their masks. These are concerning times, but remember that community care is self-care. We need to rely on one another for support and advice.

While we are further apart, we are closer than ever at heart.