By Elijah Penn, Editor-in-Chief
Well, perhaps it’s fate that someone with a writing instrument for a last name became the Editor-in-Chief for Saint Leo University’s only fully student-run newspaper.
For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Elijah Penn, and I am your new Editor-in-Chief. I first joined The Lions’ Pride Media Group in Fall 2025 and soon became a copyeditor. I am a junior with a dual major in English and political science. I’m a born-and-bred Floridian, Christian, nature enthusiast, writer, and advocate.
I could think of a hundred more descriptors of myself and have heard a heap more from others. As a writer, adjectives have always fascinated me; more so, how people are described or describe themselves.
I’ve realized every adjective we use comes from a verb we do—or more accurately, how we choose to portray ourselves comes from the actions we take, or the concepts we actively embrace and seek to embody.
In that sense, every new passion or responsibility has the potential to become your newest favorite introduction of yourself. Sometimes these adjectives like to catch us by surprise.
Indeed, working for The Lions’ Pride Media Group was never a plot point on my envisioned life-map, but it’s an experience I’d not trade for the world. Many of our staff over the years would voice a similar sentiment if you were to ask them. The unexpected connections, experiences, skills, and opportunities have forever changed the course of our lives for the better.
The best part is that isn’t just my story; I am merely some stranger who knows his way around a keyboard. These adjectives are not just words you can use for yourself, but real skills and enthusiasms that translate into being a change-maker in this life.
You needn’t write in Shakespearean prose to have a place on staff. Typos (of which I make many) can be fixed and grammar taught. All we require is a dedication and passion for being the voice of the community and advocating for the concerns and accomplishments of your peers. If these words describe you at all, then we are happy to welcome you aboard.
I urge you to apply to The Lions’ Pride—not for the money or an impressive résumé (although both are nice and have a place)—but because of our “Why.” That is, why we do what we do: to record history and be the voice promoting our incredible community.
Don’t get me wrong: you can think of your own benefit, too. Servant leadership requires one to develop their own skills before they can help others effectively. But don’t lose sight of why. When the self becomes the reason, community becomes a means to be used.
That’s just a long way of saying, in short: If Saint Leo’s core values resonate with you, and you wish to be part of positive change, I truly hope you consider letting The Lions’ Pride become a phrase that describes you in some way.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any of our wonderful staff. As the Editor-in-Chief, I would love to hear what matters to you.
Go Lions!
