The Collegian Inc. Board of Directors chose the students who will lead Penn State's student newspaper into the 114th year of publication last night.

The editor in chief position of The Daily Collegian went to Jill Leonard (junior-journalism), while Amy Hibbard (junior-public relations) became the next business manager.

Leonard competed with Tracy Wilson (junior-journalism), while Hibbard ran unopposed in a process that involved written proposals, proposals discussed in front of the board and recommendations. Leonard will take over the responsibilities of current editor in chief Patricia Tisak (senior-journalism and English) one day after the last publication date of the semester, while Hibbard takes the business manager position from current business manager Francine Sadiky (senior-marketing and speech communications).

After more than an hour discussing the future of the editor in chief position, board members faced an anxious staff and announced their selection. Gerry Hamilton, General Manager of the Collegian, said this was one of the hardest years to make a decision.

"Both applicants were very strong and it required a great deal of discussion," Hamilton said. "But I think she will pick up where we are right now . . . and lead the news division into the coming year building onto that success."

Leonard, a two-year veteran of the Collegian, has worked her way up in the ranks starting with diversity reporting to working as a news editor this semester.

During the board proposals, Leonard discussed several things she plans on emphasizing when she assumes the role of editor in chief. One of Leonard's key goals includes motivating staff to produce the best possible newspaper it can.

"A combination of motivation and learning will help keep the paper strong," Leonard said.

Leonard also plans to use motivation in improving the Collegian's retention rate. She said through an increase in encouragement and with an emphasis on the learning aspect of the paper, the paper will continue to improve.

Current editor in chief Patricia Tisak said she has confidence that Leonard will lead the paper into a successful year, while improving areas that need extra assistance.

"I have full confidence in Jill's ability as we face hardships such as the competition as well as the internal areas we need to improve upon," Tisak said.

Hibbard's plans for the upcoming publication year include strengthening the marketing department and management training. Hibbard's leadership ability was a large factor in the board's decision to elect her.

"Leadership is not a position or title, but an attitude. . .it's my attitude that will bring everyone together as a team," Hibbard said.

President of the Board Sally Maud Robertson was confident in the board's decision to elect Hibbard.

"It's very exciting when there's one candidate and they still stand out," Robertson said. "Amy will bring a lot of strength to this position."