The Western Concept

by Casey Neumiller

The Western Concept, the only student-run newspaper at DSU, returns this semester after a three-year hiatus. Originally, the paper was a fortnightly and it used to be in print form. However, due to various circumstances, Concept was put on the back burner. Eventually, the newspaper faded into oblivion. One of the reasons student interest in the paper lessened was the fact that it was really burdensome to put it in print. The software to create layouts, Quark Express, is a tiring program to work with. On top of that, it was always a hassle to meet deadlines and arrange distribution. Therefore, this time around, the Concept has been formally recognized to be published online.

This issue is our first attempt. As such, it probably appears amateurish. It definitely lacks the breadth necessary to pass off as the ultimate news source on campus. Nevertheless, our vision is to improve on our publications. In the future, the Concept will definitely play a pivotal role: it will be the mouthpiece of DSU students. The Concept also aims to act as an unbiased intermediary between the administration and the students. The e-paper will represent objectivity, integrity, and dependability. To achieve these goals, we will need unrelenting support from our readers.

The website has some interesting features. The Concept staff could be reached directly via the online comment form. This form can be accessed at the end of every story and through “Contact Us” button on the left column of the webpage. There is also an option where stories can be emailed to friends. The five sections help readers navigate stories easily and the front page highlights the major stories from the sections and links to full-page articles. However, we are still working on adding a few more features. Our priority right now is to achieve readability. To this end, we will be integrating more images within articles.

It is evident that a lot of work was put into getting the Concept together. The process began two years ago when a group of enterprising students approached the administration and inquired about the possibilities of having a newspaper. In successive months, a new constitution of student publications was drafted and a new Student Publications Board was formed. The Board, in turn, made arrangements for rejuvenating Concept. The process involved quite a number of people and it is time that they are duly recognized.

Dr. David Solheim, Professor of English, Dr. Hardin Aasand, Chair of the Department of Language and Literature, and Dr. Barbara Laman, Professor of English, encouraged the Concept’s revival from early on. Dr. Ray Wheeler, Professor of English, provided much moral support during the process. Roberta Kudrna, Administrative Assistant of the Office of Student Development, was a beacon of hope when all despaired. Tony Kessel, Student Senate President 2005-06, helped a lot by pushing the new constitution through. Diana Knutson, Director of University Relations, arranged for web hosting. Mary McDermott, Public Information Coordinator, helped with her expertise and her conscientious efforts to better our website. Last, but definitely not the least, it was Dr. George S. McClellan, Vice President of the Office of Student Development and our interim advisor, who, with his amazing acumen and his extraordinary patience, made everything possible.

As the academic year closes in, and as the snow thaws and gives way to spring buds, the Western Concept is once again ready to breathe. The next batch of Concept staff will definitely take it to new heights, and finally the cycle will be broken. I wish my best for Concept as I take my leave and graduate from DSU. I humbly call upon the administrators and the students to continue supporting the glorious project.