By: Nora Carroll

After writing for The Pharos for three years, Haley Lane is preparing to turn the page on her time at West Virginia Wesleyan College, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and dedication to student journalism. 

“Haley makes a great leader because of her ability to work well with others. She always helps bring out the best in other people,” Dr. Nancy Bressler, Communication Department Chair, said. “When Haley sees a problem that needs to be solved, she takes initiative to find a way to resolve it. Furthermore, she leads others by helping them work through issues that come up, rather than dictating what they should or should not do. Her patience is also invaluable.”

Lane has been writing for The Pharos since the fall of 2023. She has taken on a few roles over the years, including Assistant Editor-in-Chief in the 2024-2025 school year. After an outstanding first year on the editorial staff, when her senior year came around, Lane was ready to take on Editor-in-Chief. 

“Transitioning into assistant editor allowed me to analyze other students’ stories and collaborate with a team to create something we were proud of. I have enjoyed being an editor the most, as leading a team of students while being a student myself has been very rewarding. It has also given me the opportunity to support others and serve as a point of guidance, all while doing something I truly enjoy,” Lane explained. 

Lane made an impact on more than just The Pharos. She influenced the entire Communication department. 

“As first the assistant editor-in-chief and now editor-in-chief, Haley has left a remarkable legacy on The Pharos. She encourages the staff to write stories that engage the reader, utilize accurate information and credible sources, and engage in journalistic integrity,” Dr. Bressler expressed, “She assisted with the transition of the paper from just an online source, to one that is now back in print as well. Haley also participated in the Eastern Communication Association convention last year, representing the Communication Department. Her insightful and thought-provoking work on identity construction in Black Swan was very well received. Haley has such a promising future and we are really going to miss her!”

Lane loved being a writer for the newspaper because she could choose topics that mattered to her and see her work in print to share with her family. 

After graduation, Lane will relocate to Asheville, North Carolina to pursue user-generated content marketing full-time. She will be helping brands create content while maintaining creative freedom. Lane enjoys bringing campaigns to life, and she hopes to expand further in her career post graduation.
While Haley Lane may be leaving Wesleyan, her impact will continue to shape The Pharos for years to come through every story told, every student mentored, and every voice given a platform.

Image provided by: Haley Lane