The Times-Delphic publishes our Relays edition every April, a 32-page paper with year-encompassing stories bound by a theme.  

This year, our theme is presence. 

Our staff chose presence not only for its multiple meanings, but for its relevance. Each definition of the word is necessary to explore in the context of being a college student in a rapidly changing era. 

As a Drake University student, you are present on campus, attending your classes, going to club meetings and studying in the library. Yet technology developments, such as the advent of artificial intelligence, have changed what it means to be fully present as a student. 

Presence also refers to the place where you are physically — in this case, the Drake University campus. Defining the University is difficult, especially as the majority of students are only here temporarily. Not only that, but Drake is expanding its services globally, meaning it defines itself as larger than these buildings in Des Moines. 

Beyond Drake, we are all in the city of Des Moines, Iowa, in the Midwest region of the U.S. This year, we have seen federal, state and local politics impacting our campus and we have seen students respond in a vast number of ways. 

A presence may also be something that is not physical, but still felt. This year, this campus has suffered loss, from the departure of multiple prominent figures to the deaths of students. Clubs have disintegrated; new ones have formed. Buildings have been repurposed and others have gone unused. 

Presence also refers to behavior that sets a person — or University — apart. Students and faculty this year at Drake have accomplished incredible things, from research projects to fundraising efforts. It is that campus community that gives the University its unique presence. 

The Relays edition will explore presence in all its layers. I am proud of our coverage in The Times-Delphic this year, but I am especially pleased to introduce this paper. 

Without further ado, enjoy what a year in Drake’s presence looks like.