The idea for this unique collaboration originated from Nick Summers, the features editor at New York magazine. Recognizing the depth and quality of coverage that the Columbia Daily Spectator had been providing on the campus protests, Summers reached out to Isabella Ramirez, the newspaper’s editor-in-chief, proposing they work together on the magazine’s May issue.
The result was a comprehensive special report that delved into the nuances of the campus unrest. It featured an oral history of the student encampments and the takeover of Hamilton Hall, along with portraits of demonstrators from both the pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel factions. A notable addition was a 700-person poll that reflected the sentiments of the campus community regarding the protests.
The entire package was a product of the meticulous efforts of the Spectator’s student journalists, with Ramirez taking the lead on the editing side in close collaboration with Summers and Ryu Spaeth, another features editor at New York magazine. The Spectator’s photographers, including freshman Stella Ragas, captured the striking cover image and other photographs within the story under the guidance of New York’s photo director, Jody Quon.
Quon expressed her admiration for the students’ enthusiasm and dedication, noting the joy in mentoring the next generation of journalists. During her visit to the campus, she introduced the students to top industry photojournalists, who shared valuable insights and advice, enriching the students’ learning experience.
However, the process was not without its challenges. The protests coincided with the stressful finals period, and many of the student demonstrators were wary of speaking to the press. This skepticism towards the media made the Spectator’s role even more crucial, as the protesting students were more inclined to trust their peers over external reporters.
Ramirez highlighted the advantage of their long-standing presence and continual coverage of the events since early October, allowing them to build strong connections with the protest organizers. She noted that this deep engagement with the story demonstrated their commitment to understanding and conveying the complexities of the situation.
The relentless efforts of the Spectator’s journalists to provide ongoing updates about the protests exemplified their dedication to their journalistic duties. According to Ramirez, the partnership with New York magazine also allowed the students to explore long-form journalism, adding a valuable layer of depth and context to their reporting.
This collaboration enriched the historical record of the events at Columbia and underscored the importance of student journalism in capturing and conveying the essence of pivotal moments within their communities. As Ramirez poignantly noted, the impact and relevance of this comprehensive report are likely to endure, resonating within their community for years to come.
