The Daily Collegian's Board of Directors selected Devon Lash (junior-journalism and history) yesterday to replace Erin James as the newspaper's Editor in Chief. The board also selected Carolyn Yanoff (junior-public relations) to replace Craig Rippley as the newspaper's Business Manager.

Lash ran against Andrew Staub (junior-journalism), whom James said would also have made an excellent choice. Yanoff ran unopposed.

All three candidates prepared proposals with ideas for next year's newspaper and were interviewed by the 12-person board before being selected.

Board President Don Cistaro said Lash's "experience here in multiple capacities and the depth of her experience in managing people was a positive factor in her selection."

Lash said she relishes the opportunity to continue her performance.

"I'm really excited for the challenge," she said. "I think that next year is going to be a big one for the Daily Collegian."

Lash said her ideas for next year include improving The Collegian's relationship with the College of Communications by holding an open house for faculty to visit the newspaper and offering additional content on The Collegian Web site.

She also wants to revamp Venues, The Collegian's weekend magazine. With a more economical use of space, she said, the magazine could include more in-depth features and culinary reviews.

"She's proven herself as a leader and a manager," James said of Lash. "She's a go-getter and that's the type of person that needs to be in the Editor in Chief's office."

Yanoff also garnered praise for her work.

Collegian General Manager Gerry Hamilton said Yanoff "has gone above and beyond what was required for the positions she has held."

Yanoff said she plans to create a street team to market The Collegian's student promotions.

To market a spring break getaway, for example, she said the street team would dress in beach attire, sing Beach Boys songs and hand out information to students.

"Would you not come over if someone was wearing a bathing suit on the street in December?" Yanoff asked.

Rippley said Yanoff is going to be extremely successful. "We're all very excited to see what's going to happen next year with her," he said.

Lash and Yanoff will assume their positions at 6:15 a.m. on the last day of publication during the spring semester.