Editorial

From Dr. S. Amjad Hussain

With this issue, the Lumen is entering the 5th year of its publication. It has been a labor of love for all of us on the editorial board. We have had some difficulties initially, but those are part of any unusual enterprise, such as publishing a literary & art magazine in a science-driven institution. Despite minor hiccups, a few bright spots have been interesting and heart-warming. These constitute working with the student editors and the support of the Deans of the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (UTCOMLS). Dr. Christopher Cooper, on whose watch the magazine was launched, fully supported our nascent effort. And now Dr. Imran Ali, our new Dean, has been fully supportive of our efforts. Hats off to these two visionary leaders.

Since the publication of our first issue in 2021, it has become evident that our students have abundant talent as writers, poets and artists. Reviews and informal comments about the previous issues have been positive and very encouraging.

I am grateful to the student editorial board for their wonderful work in initial evaluation of contents and their constant engagement throughout the editorial, design, and printing process.

I also want to express my personal gratitude to Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, president emeritus of the University of Toledo, for acting as an advisor for poetry selection. Thanks are also due to Dr. Adam Levine, director of the Toledo Museum of Art, for his valuable assistance in evaluating and selecting submitted artwork.

Sayed Amjad Hussain