Dan Bavister, Editor-in-Chief, writes the editorial to this year’s print edition of The John’s Chronicle.
Somehow, another year has flown by, and with it, my undergraduate journey—and my time as editor of our beloved college journal, The John’s Chronicle—draws to a close.
At John’s, we’ve always punched above our weight. And while I admit I’m deeply biased, I like to think our college newspaper punches higher than any other in Durham. As one former Palatinate editor once said, “Perhaps it is The John’s Chronicle, and not The Tab, that is Palatinate’s true rival in Durham student media.”
Personal pride aside, this journal has shaped my time here more than almost anything else. In Toby Donegan-Cross, last year’s editor, I found not just a boss, but a lifelong mentor and friend. And in Seren, my tireless deputy editor this year, I’ve found both an exceptional work ethic and an unshakeable friendship. With our team of ten talented section editors, I’m confident the future of this paper is bright.
I’ve loved being editor of The John’s Chronicle. It’s a role that fresher ‘Dan Bav’ never imagined he’d one day hold. I arrived at this college a rather shy boy—something that might surprise those now used to my endless commentary on everything and nothing. But through this role, I’ve gained unparalleled access to our college, its people, and its traditions. John’s is home to me. Its people are my people. And wherever I go, whatever I do, I’ll always carry that with me. Go John’s.
As I write this editorial, my desk is scattered with the latest edition’s articles, written by our brilliant team and contributors from across the college. It’s a moment not just to reflect, but to give thanks. To Seren, for co-editing this edition with relentless dedication. To Imogen, the longest-serving and one of the most committed members of our team. To the entire editorial board, whose energy has kept this paper thriving. And to Toby, as well as George, Kathrine, and Rebecca—thank you for everything.
Too many people have shaped my time in Durham to name them all, but I want to acknowledge a few who’ve helped shape me. James, Noah, Callum, Grant, Luca, Isaac, Will, Miles—thank you for standing by me through the whirlwind of Durham life. Alessandro, Lucy, and Eleanor—thank you for the best coffee and literature chats. And thank you to everyone who has welcomed me in—you know who you are, and you all have a piece of my heart.
Above all, I thank my parents, Laura and Paul, and my younger brother Jason, now beginning his own Durham journey at St Mary’s. It takes a village to produce a newspaper—and it certainly takes a team to build a life.
Finally, thank you to you, the reader, for picking up this copy. I hope you enjoy it. I’m sure I’ll see you around. And when I do, I’ll be sure to greet you with a “Hello, my good sir!” and a smile on my face.
Until next time, Dan Bav
Dan Bavister and Seren Bell
Editor-in-Chief and Deputy Editor, The John’s Chronicle
John's Chronicle 