By The Editorial Board
Welcome back to campus, Bears. We are so glad you are here. Whether today is your first day at Baylor or you’ve done this a few times, we hope your first day of classes goes well.
To begin the year, we want to explain who is behind the editorials you see every week. In TLDR fashion, we are students writing for the students.
The Baylor Lariat’s editorial board is made up of a group of Lariat editors who meet each week to discuss the issues, events and conversations shaping the Baylor community and beyond. Our goal is to write on issues and events we believe are relevant to our readers.
Whether we’re tackling a serious issue facing Baylor or weighing in on something a little more lighthearted, we aim to reach a position together. Bearing The Editorial Board byline reflects the collective opinion of the board’s members, which may not be the personal beliefs of the individual editor who writes it. While we may not always agree when we walk into our weekly meetings, the opinions we publish are ones we have discussed, challenged and ultimately agreed to put our name behind as a collective.
Our editorials are meant to represent the collective position of the editorial board — not necessarily the views of every Lariat staff member. The opinions expressed in an editorial are also separate from The Lariat’s news coverage, which is reported independently and strives to present information fairly and accurately.
But before we start telling you what we think, we thought you should know a little about who we are, what we like and our advice for you. So, meet the 2026-27 Lariat editorial board.
Kalena Reynolds | Editor-in-Chief
While there are many unique aspects to Waco living, one is the accessibility to live music. From jazz to hip hop, the town has secretly been flourishing throughout the years with different musicians and music venues.
The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill is a must for seeing bigger artists. If you’re looking for something more lowkey than TexasMusic Cafe, The Will and Common Grounds are all good options.
Sophia Monson | Opinion Editor
Even though I spent my whole life in the United States, moving from Seattle to Waco had me continually experiencing culture shock. I’d never seen an 8-lane highway or experienced southern hospitality, let alone seen a real-life cowboy. Finding my place at Baylor took time, but it helped most to become close friends with my roommate and join an organization where I felt at home.
To those in a similar boat, be patient as you adjust to the newness of college life and the awkwardness of change. And, to answer the most asked questions: yes, I love Buc-ee’s, and no, I don’t enjoy the heat.
Hannah Webb | News Editor
One thing about me is I love a “side quest.” Some of the best memories I have made have been at a park, walking around campus or driving to Buc-ee’s at 2 a.m. with my friends. While it’s probably not the best advice, academics isn’t always the priority. Make an effort to close the Canvas tab every once and a while and say “yes” to an adventure. If you actually want to make college the best four years of your life, I can assure you that won’t be accomplished without spending time in community.
Elliott Nace | Assistant News Editor
I love collecting things and doing lots of one-off activities. Above all else, having that odd thing you do makes for a great conversation starter. Whether it be a sport on a small team, a hobby with a club here at Baylor, or a tradition you and your friends take very seriously, involve yourself in something that makes you tastefully niche. For now, the goal is to teach the rest of the board how to play this card game called Cabo without any hard feelings, but that might be impossible.
Arden Berry | Arts & Life Editor
I have a major sweet tooth, especially when it comes to chocolate. As much as I love Memo cookies (especially when they have M&M’s), there are plenty of great treats off campus as well. For cake-lovers, Simply Delicious Bakery has cupcakes that are indeed simply delicious, and Brown House Cafe has some killer chocolate cake. Waco also has some great cold treats, with Waco originals like Heritage Creamery, Katie’s Frozen Custard and Health Camp.
Jacob Stowers | Digital Content Producer
Not all study spots are built the same. Some are loud and bright, and some are dark and quiet. Ultimately, finding the right study spot comes down to a whole lot of trial and error. If you are a coffee shop studier, I would recommend Pinewood Coffee or For Keeps. They both have excellent vibes, reasonably priced coffee and fun people.
If you are aquiet studier, I recommend taking a trip across campus to the historic Armstrong Browning Library. It is beautiful, but you could also hear a pin drop in there. Just remember that studying is important, but also prioritize your mental health and friends to prevent burnout. Whether you are a freshman or a transfer student, have a great semester.
Addison Gernenz | Copy Editor
Physical media has always been an important part of my life, and it has stayed that way throughout my time at Baylor. I’ve made some of my best friends through late-night movie nights — whether we’re driving 12 minutes down the road for a 10 p.m. showing of the new Spider-Man at the AMC or cramming into one of our dorm rooms to watch the entirety of the Lord of the Rings trilogy — or because we’ve read the same book and have similar feelings about it.
Fabled Bookshop & Cafe is a favorite of mine, and I wouldencourage students to take advantage of the Waco Public Library. Waco also offers various opportunities to see live music for cheap. Pinewood Coffee Bar often has live acoustic or jazz events, and 8th Street Common Grounds has started hosting small concerts in their backyard.
