The Collegian Inc. Board of Directors selected Angela Pomponio as the new editor in chief of The Daily Collegian last night after the three candidates for the position underwent 20-minute interviews with the board.

Following 75 minutes of deliberation by the board, Sanford Thatcher, vice president of the board, announced the decision.

"We thought that Angie elaborated on her ideas in the interview," he said. "She demonstrated a greater potential as a leader."

Pomponio (junior-journalism) said she wants to improve interstaff relations and minority retention and recruitment by including minority issues in the Collegian's coverage and by using diverse sources.

"I feel that the position of editor in chief demands that you be able to look back at our efforts and choose which ones have been successful and not so successful," she said. "After you're able to do that you can decide where you have to go from there."

Pomponio is currently the assistant metro editor and previously was a minority issues beat reporter, junior metro reporter and metro candidate. She said the reality of her selection had not really hit her yet.

"I feel like I'm on the outside looking in," she said.

Outgoing Editor in Chief Mike Abrams said Pomponio's personability will help her next year, adding that he was pleased with the results.

"Her ability to work well with others really pulled her over the top," said Abrams (senior-journalism). "I'm happy with the way the Collegian will go next year under Angie."

Metro Editor Rebecca Stumpf reminisced about her past with Pomponio from their work on a story package about buffalo wings right up to their partnership as editorial colleagues. Stumpf said she never dreamed she would see Pomponio become editor in chief.

"It's weird when you see people who you have worked closely with become editor in chief," said Stumpf (senior-journalism). "It's just amazing to me."

Having known Pomponio since she joined the Collegian, Weekly Collegian Editor Amy Zurzola said she was disappointed to be graduating before Pomponio takes office.

"I almost wish I could be here next year because I think next year's going to be a great year for the Collegian," said Zurzola (senior-journalism).