When I think about how far Ponder has come, I’m reminded of the people who made it possible, especially my professors: Skott, Allen, Justin and Erin. Their encouragement, insight and belief in me shape the way I think, create and lead. They challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone and give me the confidence to take creative risks. Because of them, I found my place, both at Black Hills State and in this magazine. I’m endlessly grateful to be learning from such passionate educators who don’t just teach, but empower their students to do whatever we put our minds to.
When I first enrolled at BHSU, I was still figuring out where I fit—creatively, academically and personally. I knew I loved design and photography, but I hadn’t yet found a space where those passions could thrive. That changed the day Dr. Bergh stopped by one of my classes and announced he was looking for students to help launch a new magazine. I didn’t know it at the time, but interviewing for that opportunity would shape the rest of my college experience. I landed on the design team for Ponder’s very first issue, and since then, I’ve grown from a contributor, lead designer and now Editor-in-Chief–something I never imagined when I first started my college career.
From the beginning, I’ve had the honor of working alongside incredibly talented students who laid the foundation for what Ponder is today: a nationally acclaimed, award-winning magazine born right here at Black Hills State. That same spirit of creativity and dedication lives on in our current team. Each issue is brought to life by passionate designers, photographers, writers and artists who contribute their talents in ways that are truly one-of-a-kind.
What continues to amaze me about Ponder is the sense of community it fosters. Every issue is a collaborative effort, a space where students are empowered to express themselves, take creative risks and create something that serves a purpose beyond themselves. I’m endlessly grateful to be surrounded by such driven and talented individuals.
To my parents, my biggest fans, thank you for your unwavering love, encouragement and belief in everything I do. I’m endlessly grateful to you both.
In this issue, we’ve pushed the boundaries of what Ponder can be, creatively, conceptually and culturally. While it remains the magazine you know and love, it also continues to evolve, reflecting the vibrant range of voices, identities and perspectives that define our region. We hope these features surprise you, challenge you and spark reflection or conversation. After all, that’s what Ponder is here to do.
Whether you’re flipping through Ponder for the first time or the third, I hope you love this issue as much as we do, and that you’ll continue to support us as we keep pushing forward.
