Abstract
For nearly two decades, About Campus editors have formally and informally asked readers what they want from this magazine. “Keep it on paper” never ceases to surprise. Why, in an age of on–demand, on–the–run, online publishing would so many say so often that they want old–fashioned ink? One response is typical: “I read it cover to cover over time. It rides around in my briefcase and slows my life down. It's a companion reminding me why I do what I do, which is to help students learn.”
This issue is about embracing surprises. Each author invites readers to remain open to the possibility that not knowing what we think we know may be good. In our features, Z Nicolazzo and Crystal Harris recommend expansion of the definition of feminism, Danielle Morgan Acosta suggests that Twitter can be more than a cool tool, and Dorothy A. Osterholt and Sophie Lampard Dennis envision a new kind of college classroom. Ana L. Zevallos and Mara Washburn's In Practice challenges readers to reimagine mentoring programs.
The executive editorial staff of About Campus selected the piece by Virginia Tech's Frank Shushok Jr. for two important reasons. First, he challenges the exceedingly risk–averse higher education community to surprise itself and take more chances and, second, he represents the best of surprises. After a national search, Shushok has accepted the invitation to become this magazine's new executive editor. Beginning with Issue 19(1), Andrew Lawrence, Teagan Moran, and I turn over the reins of our beloved publication to Frank and his exceptionally talented team. Our gifted department editors, irreplaceable managing editor Victoria Arthur, and the production team at Wiley remain.
It has been my privilege to spend the last decade with About Campus. I may surprise myself by writing more and—perhaps—even meeting a few deadlines. Now THAT would be a surprise.