The passions and pursuits of university students vary as much as the states and countries from which we originate and the religions and cultures we represent. But rather than this wealth, what makes our campus’s dynamic unique from other schools is our knack for drawing inspiration from our distinct backgrounds and using this inspiration to bridge seemingly disconnected fields of study. This talent possessed by many university students and the knowledge earned by its employment, deserve to be shared with all community members in a way that expands their understanding and encourages future scholarship. Rather than specializing in the esoteric, bright scholars expand knowledge outward — toward other areas of study — and attach the spindles of their discoveries to hard-earned findings made by researchers in tangent fields. Such scholarship allows for better understanding by both the erudite academics and the young enthusiasts. Findings made in the natural sciences must be sewn into history; weighted with the ethical implications of many cultural and religious philosophies; and qualified by their economic and political significances, before solid strides can be made outside the academic community. Linking different concentrations and drawing them closer is perhaps one of our highest endeavors. The desire of uniting uncommon disciplines at the university is the reason for The Philomathesian’s existence: to be a forum for the liberal arts. The revival of The Philomathesian could not have occurred without the aid of a number of people whom the editorial board would like to thank individually. First and foremost, thank you to the previous editors of the magazine. To your initial vision in creating this publication, and to your continued dedication to the project, do we owe much appreciation. We have relied heavily on past editions 
R. Hunter Bratton | of The Philomathesian, drawing on them — sometimes literally — for encouragement and stimulation. They have served as motivation, as models, and as manuals for the first printing of this magazine in over a year. In particular, Madeline Eckenrode deserves recognition for coaxing us onto the editorial board last semester. Will Rothwell and John Clayton were helpful as well in providing preliminary guidance to us as we were drafting our own dreams for The Philomathesian. We are grateful to all three individuals for sharing their valuable experiences.
Thank you to Bo-Shan Xiang for your meticulous eye. We realize that the quality of this edition has not reached your standards, and we look forward to pursuing perfection (with your help) in future publications. Thanks also to Jaymi Thomas for your cheerful care. Your advice is always delivered in the most caring and considerate manner. Your counsel is much appreciated, and you will be missed upon your graduation this May.
Dr. Anne Boyle has been a tremendous resource. She has been gracious with her time, insight, and enthusiasm, and directed us to other excellent faculty advisers. We are so thankful for our access to her experience. When we simply did not know how to approach one of our original goals or obstacles, Anna Stokes served as a great student mentor. As the president of the university’s Media Board, she did everything she could to ensure our success. She has supported us through many snags and achievements.
Finally, Rhianna Conley, Dan Escott, and Varian Tunstall: thank you for patiently and generously providing the core of this publication. We have greatly enjoyed collaborating on this publication — the writing, photos, transient deadlines, and email exchanges. We applaud you for considering and connecting multiple fields of study. Thank you.
Haowei Claire Tong |
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