Dear Blueprint readers,
When I decided to bring The Blueprint back to life, I didn’t fully know what I was stepping into—I only knew Spelman deserved a space for our stories. As we worked to rebuild the paper, I slowly realized how vital student journalism is on our campus, especially at a college made for Black women. Along the way, I wasn’t just teaching others; I was also learning. About leadership, collaboration, and the power of a platform that genuinely reflects who we are. This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Reviving The Blueprint was more than just restarting a publication; it was about making space for us to tell our stories. Behind the layout, interviews, and social media posts were long nights, early mornings, and lots of persistence. We pushed through uncertainty, limited resources, and more because we believed our mission mattered.
I never imagined how much this committed act of revival would come to mean, not just to me, but to all of you. So here’s my advice: whatever you’re dreaming of, go for it. You never know who it might impact or how deeply it might matter. Watching this team grow over the years has been one of the greatest joys of my college experience. I’ve seen you all evolve (and not just as writers), but as students, leaders, and future changemakers. Keep going. Serving as co-editor-in-chief these past three years has been a monumental chapter in my life, full of lessons and blessings I’ll always carry with me.
To Dr. Williams, from day one, you’ve been our guiding light and greatest cheerleader. When we were just two students with a vision, searching for an advisor, you met us with encouragement and guidance. You didn’t just support The Blueprint, you supported us, as leaders and young Black women striving to create something meaningful. Thank you for your time, wisdom, and countless impromptu check-ins. This paper would not be what it is without your dedication. We couldn’t have asked for a better advisor.
To Mauranne, our “one-hour” Teams meetings turned into three-hour event sessions? I wouldn’t trade them for anything. From late-night planning to figuring out how to build this thing from the ground up, you’ve been the blueprint behind The Blueprint. Your creativity, joy, and commitment made every step possible, even without a roadmap. I’m endlessly grateful to have done this with you. Thank you for your trust, your light, and your friendship. You left this paper stronger than you found it, and I hope I’ve made you proud. I know I can always count on that FaceTime ring—and I hope you know you can count on mine too.
To ReNews Project and Flytedesk, from ads to newspaper bins, thank you both for helping Mauranne and me revive The Blueprint. Your investment in student journalism has meant the world to us. We wouldn’t be where we are today without your support, or the countless hours spent in meetings from Summer 2022 to bring our print issues and website to life.
To my E-Board, thank you for your dedication and perseverance. Many of you have been with us from the beginning, sticking with us even when we had no clue what we were doing and had to pivot repeatedly. I’m so grateful for your patience. I’m thankful to have met you all. I wish you the very best!
To Blair, thank you for contributing to the paper this year and showing me how leadership can show up. Your presence reminded me that leading with care, consistency, and creativity matters. I can’t wait to see all that you accomplish next year!
To Erinn, I’m so excited for your new role as Co-EIC–so well deserved! Your dedication and presence have already made a mark on the team. I can’t wait to see how you continue to lead and elevate the paper. The Blueprint is in great hands.
To my Operations Team, an incredible team! Thank you for handling everything from events to communication with such grace, patience, and reliability. You remained steady and supportive through every shift, change, and challenge. Your work behind the scenes made everything possible, and I’m endlessly grateful for each of you.
To my Blueprint staff, from the OGs who’ve been with us since our third-floor faculty cloister days to our newest members making their mark. Thank you. Your passion and dedication is why this publication is thriving. Keep telling our stories!
To Kelsie, I am so incredibly proud of you. Every media idea you’ve pitched–especially the 40 Under 40 project–has been an absolute joy to watch come to life. Your creativity and drive are unmatched. Always just a message away whenever you want to chat.
To Ava, Aeiress, Olivia, and Micheala, you all have been my right hands and my joy. I’ve loved every after-meeting chat, lunch, and laugh with you. You poured your hearts into the paper, and I’ll miss you more than you know. So proud of each of you!
To our readers, supporters, and the Spelman community, thank you for welcoming The Blueprint back with open arms. This paper was revived for you, your voices, and your stories. Thank you to everyone who’s ever picked up an issue, snapped photos with it, or shared one of our stories. Your support made every late night worth it.
With gratitude and love,
Kylar Gray
Co-Editor-in-Chief, The Blueprint (2022–25)
B.A., English and Political Science
