When I joined Intro to Journalism in 2020, I knew very little about writing and reporting beyond what I’d done in English class. I was interested in being a part of La Vista, but had no idea where to start or how to write for a newspaper; Mac quite literally has taught me everything I know about journalism.
On my fateful first day of Intro to Journalism, I heard for the first time a phrase that was destined to ring in my ears for years to come: “Journalism is meant to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” Mac did just that, not only as a journalist but as a teacher and mentor. Mac went to the mat both for me and against me more times than I could count. He respected content decisions, defended them to those who questioned their veracity, and cited California Ed Code 489 07, which grants school newspapers the freedom of press, until he was blue in the face. In turn, he would challenge us, hoping we would uphold the highest standard of journalistic integrity, come up with new and innovative ideas, and produce a better newspaper as a result.
Beyond the high bar he set for his paper, Mac genuinely cared for his students. He had a gift for seeing something special in each one of his pupils, and was able to instantly make connections with each of his students. Mac accepted anyone who walked through his doors, creating a space for each person and supporting them in any state. During my junior year, Mac took to calling me “Condor”—as in the Robert Redford movie—because he said I could overcome any obstacle that came in my path, my pen mightier than any sword. Mac similarly inspired confidence in each of his students, trusting in all of us to rise to the occasion when we needed to. His faith in me was the best motivator I could have asked for.
I will truly never forget all that Mac taught me, not only as a journalist but as a student and a human being.
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