Dear reader,
Storytelling has always been something constant in our society. Whether it’s through words or social media videos, storytelling bridges human connection, something that facts alone cannot achieve. When I first started on Drops of Ink as a freshman, I knew I wanted to write, but I didn’t know yet the emotional impact that it would leave. DOI was never just words on pages; it was where all stories finally felt heard.
Whether I was featuring new businesses through news writing or examining Title IX in athletic departments through investigative journalism, DOI taught me grit. While producing magazine content, you’re immersed in this process, so you can dig deeper and question the nuanced ideas, even when it means staying up late to finish a story. And when life comes with challenging times, like I found my second semester of freshman year with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome, writing can become a source of clarity.
Drops of Ink wouldn’t be the same without the people that it’s made up of. Whether it’s writers putting in tremendous effort to put forth powerful stories, photographers capturing hidden moments or layout designers working to put the magazine together, DOI is full of passion. To all editorial board and staff members, I thank you for your creativity and dedication you put forth to every magazine.
I also want to thank Dr. Reiff, who advised my first two years, for your empathy and willingness to push me to my greatest potential. And, to Dr. Katzman, thank you for your unwavering support as you’ve seen me take on editorial roles. To the staff members who stopped me in the halls to share kind words, thank you for reading the magazines that mean so much to me.
While journalism emphasizes human connection, it also teaches responsibility, showing society why we need to keep picking up that tool, whether it be a pen, a photo or a microphone. We have an impact on society, even when it feels like no one is listening.
As we all go on our next adventures, listen to yourself and what sparks your passions. Because that, reader, is what will make us – individuals and in groups like Drops of Ink – so bright.
Thank you for everything!
Grace Jackman
2026 Co-Editor-in-Chief
Dear reader,
Happy last DOI Day of the year!! I know all of you reading this are probably excited for the summer, and even more excited to not have to walk into school and hear the chant “Happy DOI Day!”
DOI has been a constant in my high school experience. For the past four years, I’ve had the opportunity to help create this magazine. While I’ve definitely spent my fair share of time complaining about deadlines and long nights, I’ve also truly valued being part of a community that is as close-knit and supportive as DOI.
Over the years, I’ve watched DOI change in ways I never expected. What was once a much larger staff has become a smaller group. With fewer people, each of us has had to take on more responsibility and step into bigger roles. That shift pushed me to become more adaptable, more efficient and more willing to work closely with others to get things done.
The friendships I’ve built and the skills I’ve gained will stay with me long after high school. Being part of a team dedicated to informing and supporting the Libertyville community has been something I’ll always appreciate.
I also want to thank our advisor, Dr. Katzman, for stepping in and guiding us through a period of change. Her support helped keep DOI moving forward and gave us the direction we needed. Besides Dr. Katzman, I want to thank Dr. Reiff, the DOI advisor during my freshman and sophomore years. He pushed me to become a better staffer and person.
Finally, thank you to the LHS community for reading, supporting and engaging with our work each month. Your encouragement has made all the effort worthwhile.
Luiza Magalhaes
2026 Co-Editor-in-Chief
