Dear Readers,

  First and foremost, welcome to the beginning of something very special.  In my wildest hopes and dreams, never would I see myself being the editor of an online magazine.  Yet, here I am-- a bit nervous about getting my feet wet, but eager to meet the needs of all Pacific students.  If at anytime you have a comment, a suggestion, or even a note of encouragement, feel free to send it my way at uop_tigerpaw@hotmail.com.   It is only with the help of others that I can truly learn how to best serve my community.  Next, I must thank Dr. Hilton for allowing me to have the creative freedom to do whatever I wished and for encouraging me to complete this project.  I also must thank Eddie Cardoza, without whom this site would not be completed and would not look so wonderful.  Thank you. 

  It is my hope that each issue of Tiger Paw will bring you closer to the Pacific campus, and allow you to leave your mark on the hearts and minds of Pacific students.  It is my wish that this magazine will accurately portray students and their concerns, feelings and opinions on a variety of topics.  This issue is focusing on Women's History Month and all of the mysteries and wonders of women.  What issues are on our minds and what women have brought us to where we are today?

  In my opinion, women today are much stronger, more independent and more powerful than ever.  Women are balancing their lives between society’s traditional and contemporary roles better than ever before.  Even on this campus, I am amazed at the strength, confidence and drive our women students have.  Among them I see doctors, writers, business executives, teachers, actresses, lawyers, maybe even our first female president, and so much more.

  Yet, there are entities desperately trying to deprive women of the strength we have taken so long to acquire.  To see an example of what I mean please go to www.about-face.org.  This non-profit group is taking on the mind-boggling task of attacking the advertising industry in trying to awaken the minds of men and women who purposely put out degrading messages against women.  Whatever your political preference, this is an issue to be looked at by all.

  Hopefully, by looking through this Tiger Paw issue, you will be able to gauge students' opinions on women’s issues and decide for yourself what needs to be done in the future.  For myself, I hope to grow more independent, care less about material goods, and value the person that I am.  It is my dream for myself, and for all women, to come to that point where you are confident with who you are and the decisions you make in life.  To all Pacific students, good luck with that dream and all of your own dreams as well.  Believing in yourself and your ideas will allow you to overcome any obstacle in your path. 

  Until next time, keep dreaming, keep succeeding and discover how to leave your imprint on the campus and the world.

Jessica Wakefield

Online Magazine Editor