Part One: The Previous Editor | Part Two: The Upcoming Editor

Letter from the Previous Editor

by Charles Templeton

After much reflection and with a deep sense of gratitude, I am stepping aside as the editor of eMerge. It has been one of the great joys of my life to curate and shape this publication, fostering a space where voices converge, ideas flourish, and creativity finds its home. While transitioning from the editorial helm, I will remain fully engaged as the publisher and owner of eMerge, continuing to champion its mission and support its growth.

It is my privilege to introduce Aubrey Green as the new editor of eMerge. Aubrey is an accomplished writer, an insightful editor, and someone whose dedication to the literary arts has long inspired me. She is currently the owner and editor at Blue Clover Editing, where her keen editorial eye and unwavering support for writers have garnered widespread respect. Her vision and passion align perfectly with the ethos of eMerge, and I am confident she will bring fresh perspectives and boundless energy to the publication. Under her leadership, eMerge will continue to thrive, innovate, and serve as a beacon for our readers and contributors.

This transition is not a farewell but an evolution. While my role changes, my commitment to this community remains steadfast. I look forward to focusing on the broader horizons of eMerge as its publisher while Aubrey breathes new life into its pages and steers its creative direction.

Thank you for entrusting me with this role and for the trust you will now place in Aubrey. Together, we will ensure that eMerge remains a place where stories are told, art is celebrated, and voices are heard.

Until next time,

I remain.

Just another Zororastafarian writer with a heart full of gratitude …

Charles Templeton
Publisher and Owner, eMerge

Editor Emeritus, WCDH

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Letter from the Upcoming Editor

by Aubrey Green

Hello!

I am thrilled and deeply grateful to be stepping into this new role as Managing
Editor of eMerge. This has always been a home for voices that challenge
assumptions and reflect the beautifully complex world we live in; that is even more
important now. It’s an honor to be entrusted with continuing this tradition while
seeking new ways to amplify those voices and expand the magazine’s reach.

In the coming months, you can expect to hear more podcast interviews from both
old friends and new; the Nikki Hanna Literary Challenge will soon begin, and the
Woody Barlow Poetry Contest will be coming back before you know it (seriously,
it’s early this year)! These programs reflect our commitment to showcasing the incredible talent of our contributors. We will also be popping up at conferences and festivals around the Midwest, so come say hello!

To our contributors, supporters, and loyal readers—thank you for making eMerge
what it is. Your passion inspires every page we publish. I invite you to share your
thoughts, ideas, and hopes for the future of this magazine—feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on our social media platforms. Together, we can
continue to foster a community where bold storytelling thrives. And to Charles,
thank you for all you’ve done for eMerge and the writing community—don’t go
too far.

Here’s to the next chapter!
Aubrey Green
Managing Editor, eMerge