Photo by Brooklynn Kenney
Dear Alumni and Friends,
It is an honor and privilege to write to you for the first time as the new editor of Berea College Magazine. While I am new to this role, I step into a story that stretches back generations, shaped by the people and purpose that define this institution. This issue, centered on “then and now,” invites us to reflect on that continuum: to consider what has changed, what has endured and how each moment builds on the last.
Working on my first issue of the magazine led me to reflect on my own “then and now” story—how early mentorship shaped my career aspirations and higher education refined my passions. I found myself thinking about how that continuum sometimes brings us back to the things we love at just the right time. For me, this new role feels full circle.
I began my career as a journalist, telling the stories of my home community in Winchester, Kentucky, and capturing history as it happened. I covered overcomers and achievers, the COVID-19 pandemic, landmark legislation, local government, the power of education and more. It was meaningful work, but ready for a new challenge, I transitioned into communications and marketing in the nonprofit and government sectors. Still, the heart of a storyteller never stops beating. The opportunity to work at Berea College brought together everything I was looking for: telling stories with purpose, supporting a mission I believe in and returning to my roots in editorial leadership. I’m both excited and humbled to be here.
I recently read a saying that resonated: “Between then and now is where transformation happens.” As someone new to this community—and not an alumna—I am struck by how much of Berea’s story exists in that in-between space, where tradition and progress meet.
This issue reflects how the past has shaped the present, how opportunity and perseverance lead to a brighter future and how our own stories can shape generations to come. You’ll read about individuals who defied the odds and refused to be defined by the opinions of others; about a campus that continues to evolve while remaining committed to serving students of great potential; and about the enduring connections that define what it means to be a Berean. You’ll also see how Berea prepares its graduates to be high achievers, role models and changemakers.
I’m thankful for the opportunity to be a small part of the Berea story and look forward to continuing to uplift it in future issues of the magazine. Please never hesitate to reach out with feedback, ideas, story suggestions or questions.
I’m grateful to step into this moment alongside you, where Berea’s past and present continue to shape what comes next.
Whitney Leggett
Editor, Director of Publications
