Q: What is an editorial?

A: An editorial is a staple of most newspapers, allowing each publication to provide an informed opinion about current events. Editorials (commonly called "edits") appear in this box every day to provoke thought and awareness.

Q: Who decides what issues will be editorialized on each day?

A: At The Daily Collegian, the editor in chief and the opinion editors draft a list of issues to be discussed at a weekly Board of Opinion meeting. The board is composed of 11 staff members who debate issues to reach an opinion based on majority agreement. The members are chosen by the opinion editors and the editor in chief to bring together diverse experience and ideology.

Q: How do the edits get into this box?

A: The edit writer -- a board member -- bases the content on the board's discussion. The edit is not a personal opinion but one of group consensus. However, individual writing style makes each edit original.

After the edit is written, the opinion editors read it with the writer to check style and spelling and to ensure the board's opinion is clearly stated. The editor in chief must give final approval before the edit is published.

Q: Where does the board get its information?

A: The board examines news coverage from local, state and national media, including the Collegian, The Centre Daily Times, The Harrisburg Patriot, The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times. Edit writers often do additional research and interviews for more complete information.

Q: Are edits considered news?

A: No. Opinion and news are separate entities. The opinion editors do not influence news coverage, nor does the managing editor dictate the content of the opinions page. Although edits are opinion, they do contain factual information to support the argument.

Q: Does the University influence Collegian editorials?

A: No. The Collegian is published independently by students, and the Board of Opinion exercises complete editorial freedom.

Q: Does the Board of Opinion's editorial stance reflect a hidden agenda for the opinions page?

A: No. The opinions page is a marketplace of ideas. Although the board's edits may consistently reflect one ideal, the board strives for fairness and is just one voice in that marketplace. The page allows for diverse and opposing expression through letters to the editor, reader forums and columns.

Q: Can readers respond to an editorial?

A: Yes. Anyone can write a letter to the editor. Letters must be no longer than two typed, double-spaced pages and must include the writer's name. Readers can also call the editor in chief or the opinion editors at 865-1828 to respond to edits.